TRANSPORT group Manibela on Tuesday questioned the slow rollout of the government’s fuel subsidy program, saying only about P651 million of the P2.4 billion to P2.5 billion allocation has been distributed, as transport workers continue to bear the impact of rising fuel prices.
In a statement, the group said more than 70 percent of the fund had yet to reach beneficiaries despite the urgent need for assistance among drivers and operators nationwide.
Manibela said the subsidy had already been released to LandBank, but actual distribution remained slow in many areas.
The group said assurances that the program was moving in the right direction were not enough if drivers and operators were still not feeling the assistance on the ground.
It said the sector needs a clear timeline, a complete list of beneficiaries, and full transparency in the release and use of the fund.
“The transportation sector is calling for immediate action, accountability, and a clear explanation,” it said.
The group said the fuel subsidy should reach legitimate beneficiaries in full and without delay, adding that the assistance should not be held back or stalled in the process.
As of Monday, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board said P651.185 million has been distributed since March 17.
Metro Manila received the biggest share at P181.278 million, followed by Calabarzon and Central Luzon, while LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza II said regional offices were continuing validation to speed up the payout.
