The Provincial Government of Cebu has officially initiated the implementation of fuel and rice subsidies targeted at drivers of public utility vehicles, with a specific focus on the habal-habal sector. This strategic move is a direct response to the ongoing surge in oil prices, which has significantly impacted the livelihoods of drivers and the general public alike.
Collaborative Efforts with National Agencies
Governor Pamela Baricuatro emphasized that this initiative is being coordinated in close partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE), the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the National Food Authority (NFA) to finalize the detailed guidelines for the assistance program. In a statement made on March 18, 2026, Baricuatro clarified, "There is a rice and fuel subsidy, but we are still working on the guidelines. We will announce once the guidelines are ready."
Funding and Additional Programs
Assistant Provincial Administrator Aldwin Empaces revealed that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) has allocated a substantial fund of P20 million to Cebu Province. This funding is designated for the launch of the "Libreng Sakay" program, which aims to provide support to passengers traveling from the northern and southern regions of Cebu to Cebu City. Empaces added, "We have to determine how many buses will participate. Once the proposal is finalized, the governor will announce the rollout."
To ensure minimal disruption, the program will include a scheduled system for participating buses, preventing any adverse effects on the regular transport sector. Furthermore, the provincial government is committed to extending aid to sectors not covered by organized groups that typically receive subsidies.
Broader Context and National Developments
This announcement comes in the wake of recent notifications from the DOTr and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). These agencies have highlighted that, in addition to the increase in fuel prices, fare hikes for public utility jeepneys and buses will be implemented due to the persistent tensions in the Middle East, which continue to exert pressure on global oil markets.
