Latest news with #LandTransportationFranchisingandRegulatoryBoard
GMA Network
25-06-2025
- Automotive
- GMA Network
Gov't prepares fuel subsidy rollout as oil prices remain volatile
The government is preparing to roll out a new round of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators—with or without franchise consolidation—should global oil prices breach the $80 per barrel threshold, a key official said during the Bagong Pilipinas public briefing. In a move seen as both proactive and inclusive, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced it is finalizing guidelines to ensure swift and equitable distribution of subsidies. A ?2.5 billion allocation has been earmarked for the subsidies under the 2025 national budget. 'We are getting ready,' said LTFRB spokesperson Ariel Inton, emphasizing that even though oil prices recently dipped to $69 per barrel, volatility—especially in the Middle East—could lead to a rapid spike. 'Mas maigi nang handa (It's better to be prepared, because anything can happen.' No more consolidation requirement In a major departure from previous policy, Inton confirmed that PUV drivers and operators no longer need to be consolidated to receive fuel subsidies. This clarification comes amid mounting concerns from transport groups that non-consolidated operators could be excluded. 'There is a clear statement from the Department of Transportation (DOTr) that consolidation is not a requirement," he said. 'Kasama po sila. Kung paano, hintayin natin sa ilalabas na guidelines," he added. (They will be included. As for how, let's wait for the upcoming guidelines.) New technology for transparent payouts With thousands of drivers expected to be eligible, the government is also eyeing digital platforms and e-wallet systems for quick and transparent disbursement of aid. 'Appropriate technology is key,' Inton noted, citing past distribution methods like e-cards and fuel coupons as possible templates. 'Pag may nauna at may naiwang wala pa, it creates strong sentiment. Kaya kailangan if I may use the word, forthwith, kaagad-agad." (If some receive aid first and others are left behind, it can cause frustration. That's why we need to act immediately, or as soon as possible.) The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will be tapped to help facilitate smooth and real-time payouts, minimizing delays and confusion. According to the LTFRB, the $80 per barrel international oil price remains the benchmark for subsidy release. Although recent prices have hovered around $75 to $76 due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the Department of Energy has already requested the DOTr to initiate preparatory actions. 'In effect I am saying, ang ahensya is finalizing everything para ready po tayo.' (In effect, I'm saying the agency is finalizing everything so we are prepared.) If the threshold is breached, subsidies can be disbursed immediately—targeting jeepney, bus, and UV Express operators and drivers. The government is using the planned subsidy as a buffer to delay fare hikes, which would otherwise directly affect commuters.—LDF, GMA Integrated News
GMA Network
22-05-2025
- Business
- GMA Network
inDrive grows driver-partners base to 20K as of Q1 2025
Ride-hailing firm inDrive has expanded its network of driver-partners to over 20,000 as of the first quarter of 2025. In an interview in Quezon City on Thursday, inDrive Asia-Pacific head of driver operations Nikolay Olesov said the company is growing steadily since it resumed operations in June last year —after a five-month suspension ordered by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board over violations of the agency's fare matrix. 'We continue growing. We already have [over] 20,000 drivers,' Olesov said. By the end of the year, inDrive is targeting to expand its network of driver-partners by 30% to 40%. inDrive's ride-hailing services are currently available in six cities, namely Metro Manila, Bacolod, Baguio, Iloilo, Butuan, and Cagayan de Oro. Asked if the company will bring its presence to more areas in the country this year, Olesov said, 'For now, we are focusing mostly in Metro Manila.' 'But for sure, in the future, we would like to extend our operations in the country,' he said. Meanwhile, inDrive has signed a partnership with SEAOIL Philippines for the ride-hailing firm's 'Drive Loyalty Program,' under which its driver-partners will gain access to exclusive fuel discounts, priority cards, reward incentives, and additional perks from the fuel retailer's stations nationwide. inDrive also honored its Top Platinum Driver for the first quarter 2025, 'recognizing excellence in service, rider satisfaction, and ride volume.' —RF, GMA Integrated News
