Several transport groups announced Thursday they are canceling their planned transport holiday next week, following the Department of Transportation (DOTr)’s launch of a financial aid and incentive package meant to ease the impact of high fuel prices on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators. The assistance includes fuel discounts, direct cash aid, toll waivers, and expanded support under the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP).
Representatives from the Alliance of Concerned Transport Organizations (ACTO), Federation of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association of the Philippines (FEJODAP), and Pasang Masda welcomed the measures during a joint briefing, confirming they will not push through with the August 10 to 12, 2026 strike. Manibela president Mar Valbuena thanked the government for the aid but said his group has not yet decided whether to proceed with their planned action. “We haven’t decided yet whether we’re pushing through with the transport strike on Monday. As of now, we don’t have a decision,” Valbuena stated.
Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez noted that while fare hikes remain suspended to protect commuters, the government is rolling out targeted support for the transport sector. Public utility jeepneys and UV Express units will receive a P12 fuel discount, while the Department of Social Welfare and Development is preparing a second round of uplift assistance that will include transport workers, with qualified beneficiaries getting P2,000 monthly until December. “We are taking other initiatives to support the transport sector and protect public commuters,” Lopez said.
The DOTr is also boosting incentives under the modernization program to help operators struggling with payments for modern jeepneys. A total of P1.5 billion has been allocated to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for modernized PUV subsidies. Aside from the existing equity subsidies of P200,000 to P600,000, the government plans to add monthly loan amortization support of at least P20,000 per unit. The DOTr has directed the board to finalize guidelines so the budget can be released, noting the extra help aims to encourage participation and reduce financial strain for operators.
Additional cost-saving measures start August 10, with PUVs exempted from toll fees on the North Luzon and South Luzon Expressways. Terminal fees at the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange will remain waived until year-end, while the SM Group will drop monthly membership fees for operators using its mall terminals. Lopez added that route rationalization activities under the modernization program will be put on hold temporarily to prioritize immediate relief for transport workers.
