CEBU CITY, Philippines — April 22, 2026. Transport groups in Cebu have voiced frustration over the government’s plan to provide a ₱5,000 fuel subsidy, saying the amount is insufficient to offset the rising costs of diesel and gasoline.

Leaders of jeepney and bus operators explained that the subsidy barely covers a week’s worth of fuel expenses for most drivers, given that daily consumption often reaches ₱1,000 to ₱1,500.

The Cebu Integrated Transport Cooperative (CITRASCO) noted that while they welcome the assistance, it does not address the long-term burden of fluctuating fuel prices. “Kung tutuusin, kulang na kulang ang ₱5,000. Isang linggo lang yan sa isang driver,” one representative said.

Other groups argued that the subsidy should be increased to at least ₱15,000 per operator to make a meaningful impact, especially since many drivers are still recovering from income losses during the pandemic.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) earlier announced that the ₱5,000 fuel subsidy would be distributed to public utility vehicle operators nationwide under the Pantawid Pasada Program.

However, Cebu transport leaders stressed that the program must be restructured to provide sustained support rather than one-time relief. They warned that without stronger government intervention, fare hikes may become inevitable.

The debate over the subsidy reflects broader concerns in the transport sector, where rising fuel costs continue to squeeze drivers’ earnings and affect commuters who rely on affordable public transport.

This issue is expected to be raised in upcoming consultations between transport groups and government agencies, as operators push for more comprehensive solutions to the fuel crisis.