In a move aimed at alleviating the economic burden on ordinary Filipinos, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the suspension of recently approved fare increases for public transportation. This declaration, made through his newest vlog episode “BBM VLOG 278: Krisis sa Langis” (Oil Crisis) released on March 22, directly addresses the challenges of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East which the President acknowledged “Maliwanag naman na itong giyera sa Gitnang Silangan ay talagang malaking naging epekto sa buong mundo at dito rin sa Pilipinas” (It is clear that this war in the Middle East has had a major impact on the whole world and here in the Philippines too).
The President emphasized the need to shield commuters, stating, “Siyempre hindi natin maaaring hayaan na pasanin itong mga mas nakakaraming commuter” (Of course, we cannot let the majority of commuters carry this burden). He revealed in the video segment his decision made earlier that morning: “Paggising ko kaninang umaga, nakita ko ‘yung mga headline at ang pinag-uusapan ay ‘yung naaprubahan na fare hike. Siguro hindi ito ang panahon para magtaas ng pamasahe para sa ating mga kababayan. Kaya iniutos ko sa DOTR na suspendihin muna ang fare hike” (When I woke up this morning, I saw the headlines and they were talking about the approved fare hike. Maybe this is not the time to increase fares for our countrymen. That is why I ordered the DOTR to suspend the fare hike for now).
Beyond halting the fare increase, the President outlined an expansion and extension of various relief measures already in place. The “Libreng Sakay” (Free Ride) Program remains nationwide and operational in key metropolises like Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, and Metro Davao. Commuters utilizing LRT2 and MRT3 will now benefit from a 50% discount starting March 23 for those with blue Beep cards, while the white Beep card continues to offer the same 50% discount for PWDs, seniors, and students.
Acknowledging the protests from affected sectors, he reassured them, “Naintindihan natin ang sigaw ng mga nagpoprotesta na kababayan nating nasa sektor na ito. Pero gusto kong ulitin sa inyo, hindi kayo maiiwanan. Hindi kayo pababayaan ng pamahalaan” (We understand the cry of our protesting countrymen in this sector. But I want to tell you again, you will not be left behind. The government will not neglect you). He detailed the progress of fuel subsidies: “Fuel subsidies sa DOTR ay nai-release na. Halos isang daang libo na na tricycle driver ang nabigyan ng Marso noong 20. Pati na rin ang nationwide rollout para sa ibang transportation sector workers na magsisimula sa April 6″ (Fuel subsidies from the DOTR have been released. Almost one hundred thousand tricycle drivers were given some on March 20. Also the nationwide rollout for other transportation sector workers will start on April 6).
Addressing concerns about food prices, the President stated that the government is closely monitoring basic commodity prices. Recounting his recent market visit, he observed, “Sa awa naman ng Diyos, stable pa at wala naman masyadong pag-abuso. Walang nagbebenta ng higit sa suggested retail price” (By the mercy of God, it is still stable and there is not much abuse. No one is selling above the suggested retail price). Regarding rice, he confirmed the ongoing 20-peso rice initiative in 177 LGUs, which is slated for expansion, and noted, “Napapag-usapan din ang paglalagay ng price cap muna sa bigas. Abangan po natin ito” (We are also talking about putting a price cap first on rice. Let’s watch out for this). He assured that there is no problem with rice supply and that prices are being controlled.
The agricultural sector is also on the government’s radar for assistance, with fuel subsidies awaiting farmers and fishermen. An additional 50 million pesos has been allocated for these programs through regional field offices. Regarding fertilizer, which is influenced by petroleum prices, President Marcos Jr. mentioned ongoing discussions with fertilizer-producing countries, ensuring supply through April while planning for May and June.
Energy security is another priority mentioned, with power generation companies being engaged to increase grid capacity. Twenty-three power projects with a total capacity of 900 megawatts are expected to go online. Coordination is also underway for the full capacity utilization of Malampaya natural gas.
To stabilize oil supply, the President highlighted ongoing discussions with various trade partners including India, China, Japan, Thailand, Brunei, and South Korea, exploring possible supply arrangements. He noted the positive response from these countries.
Furthermore, the President assured the continuous repatriation and welfare of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East. Over 1,400 OFWs and 334 dependents have returned between March 5 and March 17, followed by another government-chartered flight on March 18 bringing home 153 OFWs, 114 dependents, and 50 stranded Filipinos. Accommodation and flight arrangements to their respective provinces are being ensured.
Concluding on a unifying note, President Marcos Jr. called upon Filipinos to embrace “Bayanihan” (cooperation) during these challenging times, emphasizing the power of small acts of help, including refraining from spreading fake news, and reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting the people.| Sheenalei Briana G. Rayos
