Iloilo City Launches Fuel Subsidy Program for Transport Sector
The Iloilo City Government has initiated a fuel subsidy program to support tricycle drivers and operators grappling with escalating petroleum prices, a direct consequence of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens on the local transport community.
Distribution Details and Beneficiary Count
A total of 1,718 tricycle drivers and operators are set to receive fuel subsidy coupons under Batch 1 of the program. Distribution commenced on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, targeting members of tricycle operators and drivers associations (Toda) across key districts including Arevalo, Molo, Jaro, and La Paz.
The City Government emphasized that this program is a proactive measure to assist the transport sector during these challenging times. "We implemented this program to help with the ongoing rise in petroleum products due to the conflict in the Middle East," officials stated.
Schedule and Redemption Process
Coupon distribution is structured over two days to ensure efficiency. On March 25, beneficiaries from Arevalo, Molo, Jaro, and La Paz Districts received their subsidies, while those from City Proper and Mandurriao Districts are scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2026.
Fuel redemption follows on March 27 and March 28, with specific timings:
- March 27: Beneficiaries from Arevalo, City Proper, and Jaro can claim fuel.
- March 28: Those from Mandurriao, Molo, La Paz, and Lapuz Districts are scheduled.
Redemption hours are from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. at designated gas stations assigned to each Toda, as indicated on the coupons to maintain order.
Requirements and Additional Provisions
To claim the P500 fuel subsidy, beneficiaries must present:
- An original driver’s license.
- A photocopy of a valid ID with three specimen signatures.
- A photocopy of updated official receipt and certificate of registration (OR/CR).
For operators with multiple tricycle units, an authorized representative may claim subsidies per unit, provided an authorization letter is submitted. The City Government will offer authorization forms, but pre-prepared letters are also acceptable.
City personnel will be stationed at participating gas stations to assist during redemption. To enhance convenience, specific gas stations have been assigned per route, and beneficiaries must adhere to their scheduled times and locations.
Drivers are permitted to bring extra containers if the P500 fuel exceeds their tricycle tank capacity. For inquiries, contact the Atipan Center via Globe: 0995-391-3450, Smart: 0947-583-3564, or landline: (033) 337-1890.
Future Plans and Expansion
Following this distribution, the City Government plans to release fuel subsidy coupons for public utility jeepneys (PUJs) under Batch 1. Additionally, officials aim to provide this subsidy on a monthly basis until petroleum prices stabilize. "We will try to make the subsidy released to the transport sector monthly until the price of petroleum products stabilizes," they affirmed.
This comprehensive effort underscores Iloilo City's commitment to supporting its transport workers amid global economic pressures, ensuring continued mobility and economic stability in the region.
