The national government has announced an additional ₱1.28 billion in financial assistance for transport workers, with nationwide distribution set to begin on April 6. The initiative aims to provide continued relief to the sector amid ongoing economic challenges.
In a recent address, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reported that more than 256,000 transport workers in Metro Manila have already received ₱5,000 each in cash assistance under the current program.
The President emphasized that the newly allocated funds will expand support to transport workers across the country, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustaining the livelihoods of drivers and operators.
In addition to direct cash aid, the government has implemented several complementary measures to ease the burden on commuters and transport workers alike. These include a 50 percent fare discount on LRT-2 and MRT-3, benefiting over 12 million passengers, as well as the continuation of the “Libreng Sakay” program in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.
Further support measures include temporary toll discounts for jeepneys, buses, and freight vehicles transporting food along major expressways such as NLEX, SLEX, and STAR. Starting April 15, a reduced roll-on/roll-off (RORO) terminal fee of ₱1 will also be applied to vehicles carrying agricultural products, aimed at helping stabilize food supply chains.
The government has likewise allocated ₱2.5 billion for fuel subsidies benefiting more than 1.4 million drivers and transport operators nationwide. To date, ₱300 million in fuel subsidies has already been distributed to thousands of beneficiaries.
These combined efforts reflect the administration’s broader strategy to mitigate rising costs, support essential sectors, and ensure affordable transportation for the public.
