Philippines Government Announces Fuel Subsidies for Farmers and Fisherfolk Amid Middle East Tensions

In a video message, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has assured the public that the national government will provide financial assistance to farmers and fisherfolk affected by rising fuel prices due to Middle East tensions, aiming to ensure sufficient food supply for the nation.

Fuel Subsidy Distribution Details

The Department of Agriculture will continue distributing a P3,000 fuel subsidy to 26,000 qualified farmer beneficiaries. Additionally, the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) will begin providing a P3,000 fuel subsidy to an estimated 26,000 fisherfolk starting tomorrow, March 19, 2026.

"Sisikapin din ng Department of Agriculture na ipamahagi sa Abril sa bawat magsasaka at mangingisda ang lagpas 2,000 pisong tulong mula sa Presidential Assistance for Farmers and Fisherfolk Program. Magagamit po ito ng mga magsasaka sa kanilang hanapbuhay," said Marcos.

Call to Local Government Units

The President has called on local government units (LGUs) to allocate funds from their Local Government Support Fund to purchase rice from local farmers for their constituents. He also urged LGUs to eliminate pass-through fees imposed on vehicles transporting goods or products.

"Muli, nananawagan ako sa ating mga local government unit na siguruhing wala ng pass-through fee na sisingilin. Nakarating sa akin na may ilan pang mga barangay na naniningil pa rito sa bawat sako ng palay at sasakyan. Sana matigil na ninyo po ito dahil ang epekto lamang nito ay pinapamahal ang presyo ng ating mga bilihin," Marcos stated.

Additional Government Efforts

In the video, the President highlighted other government initiatives to mitigate the impact of the impending oil crisis. He has directed government agencies to review policies on payments for licenses, permits, clearances, and certifications to ease the burden on the public.

"Tingnan ninyo kung alin dito ang puwede munang suspendihin o ‘di kaya ay babaan ang mga singil upang makabawas sa mga iniintindi ng taong-bayan," the President explained.

Marcos noted that efforts to protect consumers and businesses are ongoing. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) is studying reductions in passenger service charges, landing fees, parking fees, and other charges to help lower airline operating costs, which could result in cheaper airfares.

"Samantala, pinaiikli naman ng Civil Aeronautics Board ang araw ng pagre-review ng fuel surcharge mula sa isang buwan, 15 days na lang po. Mas mabilis na ma-adjust ang pamasahe kapag nagbago ang presyo ng jet fuel," he said.

"Ibig sabihin, kapag tumaas ang presyo ng jet fuel, mas kontrolado ang pagtaas ng airfare. At kapag bumaba naman ang presyo ng jet fuel, mas mabilis ding bababa ang pamasahe," Marcos added.