MARCH 20, 2026 — President Marcos has ordered the release of ₱21.47 billion to cushion Filipinos from rising fuel costs and sustain infrastructure projects amid volatile global oil prices triggered by Middle East tensions. The move aims to prevent fare hikes, protect jobs, and keep the economy steady despite external shocks.

Relief or band-aid?

Every Pinoy who takes a jeepney, bus, or tricycle knows the sting of rising fuel prices. Pump prices have been climbing thanks to Middle East conflicts rattling global oil markets, and as a net importer, the Philippines absorbs every shock. 

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to release ₱21.47 billion is meant to soften the blow — ₱2.49 billion goes directly to the Fuel Subsidy Program for public utility drivers, while ₱18.65 billion is earmarked for infrastructure projects. Another ₱324.36 million will settle obligations for foreign-assisted projects.

Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo explained that the DBM fast-tracked the release to ensure “critical government services and public works remain uninterrupted despite the volatile global environment.” 

In other words, the government doesn’t want stalled projects or angry commuters.

Just a quick fix?

Fuel subsidies are supposed to stop transport operators from hiking fares. Without them, millions of commuters — students, workers, vendors — would bear the brunt of inflation. The government insists this intervention will “protect livelihoods and ensure the burden of global price hikes does not fall solely on the transport sector.”

But here’s the catch: subsidies are temporary. They don’t fix the structural problem of our dependence on imported oil. Every time global prices spike, we scramble for band-aid solutions.

The bulk of the funds — ₱18.65 billion — goes to infrastructure. The administration argues this is about job preservation and long-term productivity. Roads, bridges, and public works keep people employed and the economy moving. 

Import trap reality

The Middle East conflict is beyond our control, but the ripple effects are felt in every sari-sari store and palengke. Higher transport costs mean pricier goods, from vegetables to construction materials. The government’s move is a lifeline, yes — but it also highlights how vulnerable we remain to global shocks.

So are we truly protecting ourselves from rising costs, or just delaying the inevitable pain of an oil-dependent economy?

(Image: Presidential Communications Office | Facebook)