President Marcos has outlined a series of government interventions aimed at easing the impact of surging oil prices triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In a video message on Monday, March 16, the President said the government began implementing measures last week to reduce the burden of higher fuel prices on transport workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and consumers.

“Sinimulan na natin ang itatag ang mga hakbang upang mabawasan ang impact ng pagtaas ng presyo ng langis bunga ng kaguluhan sa Gitnang Silangan (We have begun establishing measures to reduce the impact of rising oil prices caused by the conflict in the Middle East),” he said.

Marcos said the government would begin distributing P5,000 cash relief assistance to tricycle drivers starting March 17.

The assistance will be distributed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to around 139,000 tricycle drivers across 17 local government units in Metro Manila.

He said the distribution would later expand to tricycle drivers outside Metro Manila.

Jeepney and transportation network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers are also expected to receive P5,000 in cash assistance in the coming days.

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) will likewise release fuel subsidies in the last week of March.

The President also noted that he had certified as urgent two measures aimed at reducing fuel costs.

These include a bill allowing the government to reduce excise taxes on petroleum products during economic emergencies and a proposal to amend the Biofuels Act of 2006 to allow the use of cheaper bioethanol.

Marcos said the government will continue implementing the “Love Bus” program, which offers free rides to commuters in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao.

He encouraged the public to take advantage of the free rides to help reduce transportation expenses.

The President also announced fuel assistance for farmers and fisherfolk to ensure a sufficient food supply.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) will continue distributing P3,000 fuel subsidies to more than 26,000 farmers.

Meanwhile, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) will distribute P3,000 fuel subsidies to more than 26,000 fisherfolk on March 19.

Farmers and fisherfolk are also set to receive over P2,000 each in aid under the Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk program starting April.

Marcos also said the government is working to lower air travel costs.

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) will reduce passenger service charges, landing fees, parking fees, and other charges to help airlines manage rising fuel costs.

At the same time, the Civil Aeronautics Board will shorten the review period for fuel surcharges from one month to 15 days so airfares can be adjusted faster when jet fuel prices change.

The President said he has directed government agencies to review licenses, permits, and other regulatory fees to determine which charges could be suspended or reduced to ease the burden on the public.

He also reminded local government units to stop imposing pass-through fees on agricultural products, saying these additional charges increase the prices of goods.

The Chief Executive likewise noted that local governments that had already received additional funds via the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF) may start buying rice from farmers and distribute it to their constituents.

Marcos reiterated that fees and contributions remain prohibited in public schools, especially during the graduation period.

He said the Department of Education (DepEd) will also launch a “Serbisyo Fair” on March 25, where government agencies and employers will visit schools to help graduating students and job seekers apply for work and process clearances.

Marcos urged the public to remain united in facing the economic challenges brought about by the global situation.

“Ngayon higit kailanman, kailangan natin ang pagtutulungan ng bawat isa. Walang iwanan, walang maiiwan sa pagharap natin sa hamong ito (Now more than ever, we need everyone’s cooperation. No one will be left behind as we face this challenge),” he said.