ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. is exploring the possibility of providing a fuel subsidy to drivers and other sectors heavily affected by the continuing increase in fuel prices, as the provincial government moves to cushion the impact of rising transport costs on livelihoods.
Defensor said the proposal will be discussed with provincial department heads to determine whether the provincial government can release financial assistance to affected sectors.
Priority would likely be given to sectors that rely on fuel as a direct capital for their daily livelihood, particularly public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and other transport workers.
Defensor clarified that stabilizing fuel prices themselves is beyond the capacity of a local government unit because oil price control and subsidy mechanisms operate at the national level.
So instead of attempting to influence national fuel prices, the Iloilo provincial government is studying a localized approach that would directly assist those whose incomes are most vulnerable to rising fuel costs.
Details such as the funding source, amount of assistance, release mechanism, and timeline remain under discussion among provincial department heads./PN
