Davao City Drivers Face Fuel Price Surge, Form Long Queues at Gas Stations
Motorists and public utility drivers in Davao City experienced significant disruptions on Tuesday afternoon, March 17, 2026, as they formed extensive queues at a gas station along Leon Garcia Street. This rush followed announcements of another sharp increase in fuel prices, compounding a previous hike from just a week earlier on March 10. The situation highlights the growing strain on local transport operators and commuters amid escalating global oil costs.
Fuel Price Adjustments and Impact on Drivers
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), this week's adjustment has pushed diesel prices up by P20.40 to P23.90 per liter, gasoline by P12.90 to P16.60 per liter, and kerosene by P6.90 to P8.90 per liter. These increases have dealt a severe blow to drivers' earnings, with many expressing frustration over the financial toll. Allan, a jeepney driver, lamented, "Our earnings have dropped significantly because of the prices. I hope fuel prices go back to what they were before." Similarly, delivery driver Ruben Moja noted that with P100, he now only gets one liter of fuel compared to two liters previously, drastically reducing his operational capacity as the fuel that used to last two days now barely lasts one.
Government Response and Fare Hike Suspension
In response to the crisis, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) had initially approved a fare hike, raising traditional public utility jeepney fares by P1 to P14 for the first four kilometers, effective March 19, with modern jeepneys set to increase by P2 to P17. However, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. intervened on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, ordering the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend the planned fare increase. He emphasized, "This is not the time to increase fares for our fellow citizens," citing the need to protect commuters, workers, and students during this challenging period.
Immediate Relief Measures Announced
President Marcos assured transport workers of immediate government assistance, stating, "Our transport workers should not worry, as we will expedite and increase the support for you so that you won't have to struggle too much." As part of relief efforts, he announced the nationwide rollout of Libreng Sakay or free rides, along with fare discounts on major rail systems and toll roads. These measures aim to ease travel costs and minimize disruptions to daily life, ensuring that residents can continue their work and students can attend school without interruption.
Global Factors and Ongoing Challenges
Analysts attribute the fuel price surge to ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have driven global oil prices higher and directly impacted local costs. Despite these challenges, the government remains committed to supporting the public and maintaining normal, orderly, and safe living conditions for all Filipinos. The situation in Davao City serves as a microcosm of broader economic pressures, with drivers and commuters bearing the brunt of these fluctuations while awaiting further government interventions.
