Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Representative Leila de Lima has filed House Resolution 913 urging the government to expand its public transport service contracting program to support drivers and commuters struggling with soaring fuel costs.
De Lima called on the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to address gaps in the program’s implementation.
“Sa laki ng itinaas ng presyo ng krudo, marami na ang tumigil sa pamamasada dahil abono lang ang aabutin nila. May mga PUV drivers pa ring nakikipagsapalaran, pero kaakibat ng kada pasada nila ay ang malaking pangamba ng pagkalugi o kapiranggot lamang na kita. Pasang-krus talaga itong gumagrabe pang krisis sa presyo ng langis,” she said.
She noted that even before the current crisis, drivers were already struggling to make ends meet. With diesel prices more than doubling, fare hikes have been suspended and government aid has been limited.
Under the service contracting scheme, drivers are compensated by the government for providing free rides to passengers.
De Lima argued that institutionalizing the program could help ease the burden on drivers, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and lower fuel consumption.
Her resolution also cited studies showing that service contracting faces financial, political, and operational challenges, including resistance from operators, fare-setting issues, and institutional limitations—underscoring the need for stronger policy support.
De Lima emphasized that expanding the program would not only provide relief to drivers but also benefit commuters and contribute to energy conservation.