LTFRB to fuel subsidy beneficiaries: Have your cards validated or replaced

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has advised qualified beneficiaries with lost or expired fuel cards to coordinate with authorities for the validation and replacement of their card.

The LTFRB issued the reminder as part of its preparations for the possible roll-out of the fuel subsidy program amid the expected hike in petroleum prices due to the Middle East conflict.

In a Facebook post, the agency advised beneficiaries of the fuel subsidy program with lost, expired, or inactive cards to get in touch with the Land Bank of the Philippines to have their cards validated or replaced.

“Pinapayuhan ang mga benepisyaryo na asikasuhin ang kanilang mga card sa lalong madaling panahon upang maiwasan ang anumang pagkaantala sa oras na opisyal nang maisakatuparan ang subsidy program,” the LTFRB said.

(The beneficiaries are advised to address issues with their cards as soon as possible to avoid any possible delays once the subsidy program is officially implemented.)

On Monday, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) said it is preparing for the possible release of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicle (PUV) operators and drivers should fuel prices further spike amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The DOTR and the LTFRB are preparing the documents for the possible roll-out of the fuel subsidy should crude oil prices hit $80 a barrel.

DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez said this is in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that the government is ready to aid PUV drivers and operators in case of further oil price hikes.

On Tuesday, the LTFRB said it is looking into granting provisional fare increases for almost all types of public transportation if diesel prices reach P60 per liter.

LTFRB chair Vigor Mendoza II said said the move is being considered amid rising global oil prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East, which have pushed up petroleum costs in the world market.

Mendoza said a fare hike petition covering buses and jeepneys was already submitted for resolution and may soon be decided upon. — JMA, GMA Integrated News