State-lender Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) is expanding its response to the energy crisis through a coordinated package of fuel subsidies, commuter rebates, and low-interest loans, aiming to shield the transport and agriculture sectors from volatile global prices.

Landbank said in a statement on Tuesday, April 28, that public utility vehicle drivers are eligible for a ₱10-per-liter fuel subsidy for up to 150 liters per week. The program, which allows for maximum weekly savings of ₱1,500 per unit, is designed to stabilize operating costs for jeepney and UV Express drivers.

To prevent leakage and ensure the aid reaches intended recipients, Landbank said it is utilizing a digital processing system that restricts transactions to qualified operators and accredited fuel stations.

The intervention comes as the government moves to prevent a spike in public transport fares, which often drives broader inflationary pressure. By automating the discount at participating stations in Metro Manila, the bank aims to reduce the immediate financial burden on drivers who have seen their margins squeezed by rising pump prices.

Beyond direct fuel aid, Landbank is also targeting the daily cost of living for commuters through its MRT-3 Balik Pasahe promotion.

Under the program, passengers who use Landbank-issued contactless Visa or Mastercard debit and credit cards at select turnstiles receive 100 percent fare cashback. The initiative is intended to encourage the use of digital payments while providing direct relief to the thousands of workers who rely on the rail system for daily transit.

For businesses and transport cooperatives facing longer-term liquidity challenges, the bank is deploying capital through its Calamity Assistance and Rehabilitation Efforts for a Sustainable Recovery (CARES) Plus Lending Program.

The facility provides working capital loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises, as well as transport groups, to support recovery efforts and maintain service continuity during periods of economic volatility.

The lender is also extending its credit reach to the food production sector, where energy costs represent a significant portion of overhead. Through its Agrisenso Plus Lending Program, Landbank is offering loans to farmers and fishers at a preferential interest rate of three percent per year.

The bank noted that these funds are specifically earmarked to help the sector manage the rising costs of fuel and electricity required for irrigation and logistics. (Derco Rosal)