(THE BORONGAN CITY INFORMATION OFFICE)
TACLOBAN CITY — The local government of Borongan City is planning to roll out a fuel subsidy program for tricycle drivers and boat operators in a bid to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices and prevent fare increases that could burden commuters.
Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda said the city government is willing to extend fuel assistance to drivers and boat operators on the condition that current fares will remain unchanged while fuel prices remain elevated.
He emphasized that a fare hike could adversely affect daily commuters and disrupt economic activity in the city.
Under the proposed scheme, the city government will coordinate with selected fuel stations for the procurement and distribution of fuel. Assistance may be provided through a coupon system, which drivers can use at accredited gas stations to ensure transparency and avoid conflicts of interest.
Meanwhile, transport workers in Borongan are also set to receive financial assistance from the national government.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), has announced cash aid for affected drivers.
Based on city government data, about 1,908 tricycle drivers and 20 boat operators are expected to benefit from the program, with each receiving P5,000 in assistance.
City officials said the combined local and national interventions aim to ease the financial strain on transport workers while ensuring that fares remain affordable for the riding public.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
