President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that the government will provide a ₱10,000 fuel subsidy per bus unit to help transport operators cope with rising fuel prices.
The subsidy distribution started nationwide and is not limited to Metro Manila.
The assistance is part of the government’s response to increasing fuel costs caused by global developments.
SUBSIDY FOR BUS 🚌⛽
— GMA Integrated News (@gmanews) March 24, 2026
Pres. Bongbong Marcos announces P10,000 subsidy for each bus unit during the distribution of fuel subsidies for public utility vehicles at PITX on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
"We are now providing P10,000 subsidy for each bus unit. Lahat ng klase ng method of… pic.twitter.com/ewuHyVsGBD
How will the subsidy be given?
According to the President, the subsidy may be released through different payment methods, including:
- Digital wallet (such as GCash)
- ATM card
- Check
- Cash
The government said digital payment is faster and more convenient, but other options are still available.
How much is the budget for the subsidy?
The Department of Transportation (DOTr) announced that the government has allocated:
- ₱2.5 billion total budget
- Around 245,000 drivers and operators nationwide will benefit
- About 1.18 million public transport units are expected to receive assistance
Other transport sectors receiving subsidy
Aside from bus operators, the government will also provide financial assistance to other public transport sectors.
Here are the subsidy amounts:
- Mini-bus Operators: ₱9,000
- Mini-bus Drivers: ₱5,000
- Public Utility Bus (PUB) Operators: ₱10,000
- PUB Drivers: ₱5,000
- School Transport Operators: ₱5,000
- School Transport Drivers: ₱5,000
- Taxi Operators: ₱2,000
- Taxi Drivers: ₱5,000
- Modern UV Express Operators: ₱10,000
- Modern UV Express Drivers: ₱5,000
- Traditional UV Express Operators: ₱5,000
- Traditional UV Express Drivers: ₱5,000
- Modern Jeepney Operators: ₱10,000
- Modern Jeepney Drivers: ₱1,500
- Traditional Jeepney Operators: ₱5,000
- Traditional Jeepney Drivers: ₱1,500
- FilCab Operators: ₱5,000
- FilCab Drivers: ₱1,500
- TNVS Operators and Drivers: ₱1,500
Also read: Marcos Orders ₱5,000 Fuel Subsidy for Public Transport Drivers
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Why is the subsidy being provided?
The subsidy aims to help transport operators and drivers manage the impact of rising fuel prices.
The government also hopes the assistance will help prevent fare increases and reduce the burden on commuters.
Officials said additional programs may be introduced if fuel prices continue to rise.
Additional government support
The government is also coordinating with other agencies to provide assistance to transport workers.
Earlier, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed ₱5,000 cash aid to tricycle drivers in Metro Manila.
The Department of Transportation is also studying the possibility of providing:
- Free rides during peak travel periods
- Additional financial assistance if needed
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Bus operators will receive ₱10,000 per bus unit.
Yes. The subsidy is being distributed across the country.
It may be given through digital wallet, ATM, check, or cash.
Drivers and operators of buses, jeepneys, taxis, UV Express, and other public transport vehicles.
To help transport workers cope with rising fuel prices.