(Photo courtesy of Borongan City LGU)
TACLOBAN CITY — The city government of Borongan has started the dry run and initial distribution of fuel subsidy coupons under its fuel assistance program, aimed at easing the burden of rising fuel prices on local transport workers.
Led by Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, the June 12 launch signals the beginning of the city’s program to extend fuel assistance to tricycle drivers and pump boat operators affected by sustained increases in fuel costs linked to global market pressures.
Mayor Agda said the initiative is the city’s response to the continuing impact of high fuel prices on workers and their families, particularly those in the transport sector.
He added that the program has been institutionalized through a local ordinance and is open to all qualified beneficiaries, provided they meet the required guidelines, without discrimination.
The city government has earmarked P10 million for the program’s implementation, which will run until the allocated funds are fully utilized. Officials also said a second phase is being considered depending on the outcome of the initial rollout.
More than 900 transport sector workers are expected to benefit from the subsidy program.
Six fuel stations have partnered with the local government for the initiative.
Beneficiaries may redeem fuel using coupons issued by the city government, with fuel claims accepted only until 4 p.m. daily to ensure timely processing of payments to participating stations.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
