MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Imee Marcos has urged the Department of Agriculture (DA) to fast-track the rollout of fuel assistance for fisherfolk affected by the oil crisis triggered by the conflict in the Middle East.
The senator made the appeal on Wednesday during the resumption of the Proactive Response and Oversight for Timely and Effective Crisis Strategy (PROTECT) Committee hearing on the government’s readiness to address a potential fuel crisis.
Marcos cited earlier discussions with the DA on a proposed P10-per-liter fuel voucher for agricultural transport workers and fisherfolk.
“That discussion has already been running for almost two and a half months. Are we already acting on it?” Marcos asked DA Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr..
“Last time, you said it was up for review. Two and a half months without sufficient income is a heavy burden for our fisherfolk,” she added in Filipino.
Laurel responded that requests for fuel assistance vary by region and sector, with some areas proposing targeted voucher programs while others are seeking alternative forms of support.
He also cited ongoing coordination with other agencies, including discussions on possible price adjustments in the canned sardine industry in Zamboanga, as part of broader efforts to boost fisherfolk income.
Laurel said the DA is awaiting the release of around P6 billion from the Department of Budget and Management to fund various agricultural assistance programs, including fuel subsidies.
He assured Marcos that the program will proceed once funding is released, with implementation targeted in the coming weeks.
