Photo credit: MANIBELA

Public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers are urging the government to increase financial support as fuel prices continue to surge, saying current assistance is insufficient to cover daily losses.

The transport group MANIBELA is calling for P10,000 in monthly cash aid for drivers, instead of the one-time P5,000 payout currently offered under existing government programs such as the Pantawid Pasada Program.

According to MANIBELA chairperson Mar Valbuena, the current aid does not adequately help drivers cope with high fuel costs, which are causing significant reductions in daily income. “It’s only reasonable — if it’s P5,000, the aid should be given twice a month, or at least P10,000 per month,” Valbuena said. He added that drivers estimate losing around P1,500 per day due to high petroleum prices.

The situation has also affected commuters, as rising fuel costs could lead to fare increase petitions or reduced trips when drivers can no longer afford to operate.

To highlight their demands, MANIBELA joined the No to Oil Price Hike Coalition in organizing a two-day nationwide transport strike, affecting jeepney, bus, TNVS, and motorcycle taxi drivers across Metro Manila and other regions.

While the government has implemented fuel subsidy programs to cushion the effects of volatile global oil prices, transport groups say these measures need to be expanded and made more consistent to address the ongoing challenges faced by drivers.

The strike and calls for higher aid come amid continuing concerns about the sustainability of the sector and the need for long-term solutions to support drivers and ensure stable public transport services for commuters.