QUEZON CITY, Philippines — The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is seeking an exemption from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) regarding the prohibition on public fund disbursements ahead of the 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).
The request aims to shield key commuter and transport sector initiatives—including the Service Contracting Program (SCP) with its EDSA Busway Extension and Love Bus “Libreng Sakay” initiative, the Fuel Subsidy Program (FSP) covering one-time assistance and a ₱12.00 per-liter discount, and ongoing activities under the Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP).
In a formal letter dated September 15, Tuesday, and officially received by COMELEC on September 16, LTFRB Acting Chairman Greg Pua, Jr. stressed that the expenditures are designed to cushion drivers, operators, and the riding public from the financial strain caused by the Middle East conflict.
According to Pua, the Service Contracting Program compensates operators based on validated transport services delivered, while the fuel assistance provides targeted relief to qualified public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers to keep public transport running despite surging fuel costs.
Meanwhile, the PTMP remains a long-term national effort to modernize the public transit fleet.
The agency is also processing up to three months’ worth of relief packages to support modern transport operators with monthly loan repayments and running costs amid rising oil prices.
“The subject programs are continuing government programs and are not election-related or partisan activities. They are implemented pursuant to existing laws, appropriations, policies, and program guidelines,” Pua said in a letter.
“These programs are intended to ensure continuity, affordability, safety, and reliability of public transportation,” he added.
Pua warned that halting these operations during the election period could trigger severe disruptions to essential transport services, directly hurting commuters, drivers, and transport operators.
To address transparency concerns, the agency guaranteed that all project rollouts will strictly abide by objective eligibility rules, proper verification, thorough accounting, and auditing standards.
Pua further assured the public that no political candidates or parties will participate in or be involved with the implementation of these initiatives in any capacity.