MANILA, Philippines – Ferry and bus operators have committed not to raise fares during the Holy Week travel rush, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said Tuesday, as the government moves to cushion commuters from rising fuel costs.
In an interview with Bloomberg, Marcos noted that transport operators are coordinating with the government to maintain fares and ensure trips will not be reduced despite the expected surge of passengers heading to the provinces.
The President emphasized that support for the riding public, workers, and the middle class remains a priority to prevent higher transport costs from affecting livelihoods.
To offset fuel price increases, Marcos announced the release of about ₱2.5 billion in fuel subsidies within the next two days, with four rounds of assistance planned. The aid will cover operators and drivers of ships, buses, public transport, and delivery services.
Meanwhile, Marcos signed Executive Order No. 110, declaring a state of national energy emergency amid risks to the country’s energy security linked to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
NEWS SOURCE: Bloomberg, PNA
