As fuel prices continue to climb, public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers across Cebu are struggling to sustain daily operations, prompting the provincial government to roll out rice assistance to help cushion the impact of rising costs.
The Cebu Provincial Government has begun distributing 10-kilogram sacks of rice to drivers, positioning the program as a practical way to ease the burden of inflation, particularly in the transport sector where fuel expenses directly reduce daily earnings.
For many drivers, the assistance serves as essential support.
“Dako kaayo ni’g tabang,” one driver said, noting that the rice subsidy helps cut household expenses.
Another driver, Edelberto Pakang, who has been in the industry for nearly a decade, said earnings have significantly declined.
“Nag-abang man ko sa unit maong akong limpyo ana mga P250–400 nalang jud,” he said, explaining that boundary fees and fuel costs leave little for personal income.
Ramil Miñoza, a driver plying the Tabunok–IT Park route, echoed the strain, saying rising fuel prices have forced operational adjustments.
“Dako kaayo’g krudo. Maygani natagaan mi’g bugas, dako kaayo ni’g tabang namo. Bahalag gamay mo byahe nalang jud kay lain man sad kaayo mao ra man ang trabaho,” he said.
Provincial officials said transport costs have been a major contributor to inflation in Central Visayas, placing drivers among the most affected sectors.
Elizar Sabinay, executive assistant assigned to the Provincial Planning and Development Office, said the region recorded one of the highest inflation rates in March 2026.
“Central Visayas is the highest… Cebu Province is one of the highest… and the biggest contributor to inflation is transportation,” Sabinay said.
Instead of cash aid, the provincial government opted for rice distribution as a targeted intervention to reduce daily expenses.
“Financial support ang national program… so how can we support them? Through this rice program, at least ma-minusan ilang expense sa pagpalit og rice,” Sabinay added.
The distribution is intended to go beyond a one-time rollout, with weekly releases planned to reach more beneficiaries across the province.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro said additional assistance is also expected from the national government.
“Naa pay maabot, ‘Bigay Bigas para sa Masa’ from Malacañang. So this is just an initial, sa province lang ni karon,” she said.
Beneficiaries include PUJ drivers residing in Cebu province, including those operating within Cebu City, provided they are listed under the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) or endorsed by operators.
Around 4,300 drivers are included in the initial batch, with more expected as submissions are processed.
To sustain the program, the province is sourcing rice from local producers such as the Lamac Multipurpose Cooperative, while augmenting supply from nearby areas. (SBA)
Photo by SBA
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