LTFRB: Over P27M in fuel aid released to taxi drivers on last distribution day

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said it released over P27 million in fuel subsidy to taxi drivers on the second and final day of distribution, as part of the government’s cash aid program for the public transport sector.

In a statement on Sunday, the LTFRB said 5,440 taxi drivers each received P5,000 in cash assistance on Saturday under the government’s fuel subsidy program.

This brought total disbursements for the day to P27.2 million, according to the agency.

LTFRB Chairperson Vigor Mendoza II said distribution was extended until 9 p.m. to accommodate all qualified beneficiaries who were present at designated payout sites.

“The distribution was extended up to 9:00 PM just to make sure that all the qualified beneficiaries present in the distribution areas will receive their cash assistance from the national government,” Mendoza said.

The LTFRB said around P10 million was also distributed to about 2,000 taxi drivers on the first day of payouts on Friday.

The two-day distribution for taxi drivers formed part of the broader fuel subsidy program for the transport sector, which the LTFRB said has already covered qualified beneficiaries from other public utility vehicle (PUV) groups.

Mendoza said part of the rollout included the distribution of checks to transport service entities in some regions to help facilitate payouts to their members.

He said the two-day distribution showed the importance of coordination among government personnel and transport stakeholders in implementing assistance programs.

“The successful two-day fuel subsidy distribution is proof that all tasks, no matter how hard they are, will be performed easily and accomplished properly through strong coordination and cooperation,” Mendoza said.

Aside from the P5,000 subsidy, the LTFRB said it is also coordinating with the Department of Energy, LandBank, and transport groups for the implementation of a P10 per liter fuel discount for PUVs nationwide. —Sherylin Untalan/RF, GMA News