
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has lauded the government’s efforts to cushion the impact of the “astronomical increases” in prices of oil products to public utility drivers and operators.
It cited the government’ grant of fuel subsidy to about 377,000 qualified drivers and operators of jeepneys, taxis, tricycles and other full-time ride-hailing and delivery services through the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
It said the government has set aside P2.5 billion for the program with P1.75 billion or 70 percent will be allocated to PUVs under the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB); P625 million or 25 percent to tricycles with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG); and the remaining P125 million or five percent to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) delivery services.
"Considering the blows they have suffered during the series of pandemic lockdowns, the said sector urgently need fuel subsidy to sustain their livelihood and to gradually recover from the compounding crises," CHR Spokesperson Jacqueline Ann de Guia said in a statement.
Because of the government's immediate response to the oil price hike, De Guia said the CHR is hopeful that PUV operators and drivers, as well as commuters, “will be able to weather through this difficult time especially now that most businesses and offices are back to full operations.”
At the same time, the CHR is looking forward to the government's long-term plans to mitigate the impact of the crisis to poor households, she said.
"We urge the government to explore and study other options that can help ensure a stable fuel price in the long run. In all situations of crisis, especially those that pose serious economic implications, let us put primacy to the welfare and dignity of the most impoverished sectors," she added.