In lieu of fare hikes, the President ordered the DOTr to accelerate direct cash and fuel support,often referred to as the DOTr subsidy,for transport workers, with initial disbursements targeted for late March 2026. The administration also outlined commuter-focused steps: free or deeply discounted rides on select MRT and LRT lines, temporary toll reductions on major expressways, and an expanded Service Contracting Program to provide free point-to-point services on high-demand corridors.
Transport groups welcomed the intent but warned, “Subsidies must arrive quickly and reflect real operating costs,” noting that fuel, spare parts inflation, and debt obligations persist despite the suspended fares.
Officials have yet to publish detailed eligibility rules and payment schedules, leaving many drivers and operators preparing documentation,fuel receipts, franchise renewals, and vehicle registrations,to streamline applications once portals open.
What Comes Next
