Malacañang has ordered key agencies to accelerate the rollout of assistance programs as the government stepped up coordination to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.

This developed as Executive Secretary Ralph Recto convened frontline agencies following the directive of President Marcos to ensure a whole-of-government response to the effects of surging oil costs.

During the meeting on Monday, March 16, Recto directed the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to immediately release funds for cash assistance to transport drivers under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

He also ordered the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to fast-track and expand relief measures, including the Libreng Sakay program, to ease the burden on commuters, workers, and students.

Additional measures include securing toll fee discounts for public utility vehicles and reducing select aviation charges to help lower airline costs and fares.

The Executive Secretary said fuel assistance would also be extended to farmers and fisherfolk, citing the heavy dependence of food production on fuel.

“Ito ang utos ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Ang kanyang direktiba ay madaliin ang pagbibigay ng ayuda sa mga magsasaka at mangingisda (This is the directive of President Marcos—to expedite the delivery of assistance to farmers and fisherfolk),” Recto said.

He said a P10-billion fund will be tapped to support farmers and fisherfolk affected by rising fuel prices.

Recto noted that modern farming and fishing rely heavily on fuel-powered equipment and vessels, making these sectors vulnerable to fuel price hikes.

“And fishermen no longer paddle out to sea… that is why as much as 75 percent of the market price of fish represents fuel cost,” he said.

Recto said the move aims to prevent fuel inflation from triggering a spike in food prices.

“We know that fuel inflation can trigger food inflation. That is what we are trying to mitigate,” he said.

He warned that a limited fuel supply for fishermen could reduce catch and drive up fish prices.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has been tasked to implement the subsidy program and ensure a stable food supply, particularly for rice.

Recto said the government is mobilizing all agencies to address the crisis and protect consumers.

Present during the meeting were DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DOTr Secretary Giovanni Lopez, DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., and DBM Secretary Rolando Toledo.

The coordinated response, Recto said, is meant to ensure that assistance reaches affected sectors quickly while keeping prices stable amid global uncertainties.