President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. personally inspected the government’s service contracting program in Cubao on Monday, highlighting efforts to support transport workers and commuters amid rising fuel costs.
The initiative, managed by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), provides financial aid to operators of jeepneys, UV Express units, and buses. In exchange, operators are required to maintain operations, follow authorized routes, and offer fare discounts to the public.
Marcos underscored the importance of keeping public transportation active despite global oil price hikes, noting that subsidized fares are designed to ease the burden on daily commuters.
Key Program Features
- Continued Support: Government assistance will persist as long as global oil prices remain elevated.
- Expanded Discounts: Students, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) can now access fare discounts of up to 60%.
Addressing ongoing tensions in the Middle East, the President assured that the government is prioritizing the safety of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
“Yung mga OFW natin, inaalagaan natin. Kung kailangan umuwi, tinutulungan natin sila, at may mga livelihood programs pagbalik nila,” Marcos said.
The administration continues to monitor international developments to ensure timely assistance and livelihood opportunities for returning workers.