President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today called on the Filipino people to uphold the spirit of bayanihan (collective heroism) as the government intensifies its response to the economic and logistical challenges sparked by rising tensions in the Middle East.
In his latest address (BBMVLOG 278), the President emphasized that national solidarity is the country’s strongest asset during times of global uncertainty. He specifically urged the public to practice “responsible citizenship,” particularly by combating the spread of misinformation.
“Ngayon ang panahon para maipakita natin sa buong mundo ang katangian ng bayanihan na nasa puso ng bawat Pilipino,” President Marcos stated. “Pagtulong sa kapwa, o kahit sa pamamahagi ng tamang impormasyon at hindi pagkakalat ng fake news—huwag naman sana tayong magdagdag pa sa problema.”
Recognizing the strain of rising fuel costs on the labor force, President Marcos has ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend all planned fare increases. To further alleviate the burden on the public, the administration has finalized several transport-related interventions:
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Fare Suspension: All proposed public transport fare hikes are officially on hold.
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50% Discounts: Starting March 23, LRT-2 and MRT-3 passengers using designated Beep cards will receive a 50% discount. This is in addition to existing discounts for seniors, PWDs, and students.
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Libreng Sakay (Free Rides): Free ride programs will continue and expand across major urban hubs, including Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.
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Fuel Subsidies: Distribution has reached nearly 100,000 tricycle drivers, with a nationwide rollout of additional aid scheduled for April 6.
The President assured the nation that the supply of essential commodities remains stable. The administration is monitoring market prices closely to ensure they remain within suggested retail levels.
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P20 Rice Program: Currently operational in 177 Local Government Units (LGUs), with plans for further expansion. The President noted that a price cap is also under review to maintain affordability.
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Energy Grid Expansion: To prevent power shortages, 23 new energy projects are expected to add 900 megawatts to the national grid in the coming months.
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Global Oil Partnerships: The government is actively negotiating with India, Japan, and South Korea to secure a steady oil supply despite global market tightening.
The President reaffirmed that the government is prioritizing the safety of Filipinos abroad. Since early March, over 1,400 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and 300 dependents have been successfully repatriated from the Middle East. The government is providing comprehensive support, including hotel accommodations and domestic flights to their home provinces.
“Asahan naman ninyo na nandito lang ang pamahalaan bilang inyong takbuhan at sandalan,” the President concluded. “Huwag nating kakalimutan na kapag pinabayaan natin ang isa sa atin, napabayaan na natin ang buong bansa.”
