Malacañang affirmed that the fuel subsidy initiative for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators will persist, while confirming that the service contracting scheme has come to a close with no additional funding allocated.
Palace Press Officer and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro explained that the fuel support program remains funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA).
”So, sa budget for fuel subsidy for PUV drivers and operators ay may ₱2.5 billion katulad ng sinabi natin na manggagaling sa 2025 Continuing Fund at ang Fuel Subsidy Program or Pantawid Pasada Program ay tuluy-tuloy pa rin,” Castro noted.
However, she clarified that the service contracting program has been completely wrapped up and will not be extended due to a lack of new appropriations.
Castro further stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed relevant government agencies, particularly the Department of Energy (DOE), to closely track fuel prices and execute strategies to cushion domestic pump costs against the fallout from the ongoing Middle East conflict.
“Alam naman natin na continuous ang order ng Pangulo sa lahat ng ahensiya, especially kay Secretary Sharon Garin, para ma-stabilize ang mga presyo ng fuel, at alam po natin kasi nagtutuloy pa rin po iyong krisis sa Middle East. So, tuluy-tuloy pa rin po ang pag-monitor dito,” Castro added.
The Palace official emphasized that maintaining price stability remains a key government priority as volatile geopolitical conditions in the Middle East continue to impact the global oil supply.