More than 2,700 qualified tricycle drivers in this city will receive a PHP1,000 fuel subsidy from the city government on Aug. 6 to help ease the impact of rising fuel costs and support public transport services during the 2026 Ibalong Festival.
Mayor Hisham Ismail said the assistance was approved through an ordinance with the support of the 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) and aims to provide financial relief to tricycle drivers while encouraging compliance with the city’s approved fare rates as residents and tourists are expected to flock to festival activities.
“With the subsidy, tricycles are expected to be available, especially as the Ibalong Festival opens the following day,” Ismail said in a phone interview Wednesday.
He said the assistance is intended not only to help drivers cope with higher fuel prices but also to provide additional support for their families.
“Not only is this for the Ibalong Festival, but it is also meant to provide relief to their families. It will also augment their fuel expenses as fuel prices continue to rise,” he added.
Ismail said the subsidy is currently a one-time initiative, although the city government may consider extending similar assistance should fuel prices remain high and funds become available.
“As of now, it is a one-time subsidy because that is what has been approved under the ordinance. It will depend on whether the situation continues and if we can allocate funds in the future,” he said.
Beneficiaries welcomed the assistance, saying it would help ease both livelihood and household expenses.
Joel Del Ayre, 38, of Barangay 16, Kawit East Washington Drive, said he plans to use the subsidy to replace a worn-out tire on his tricycle to keep it operational and continue earning for his family.
“I will use it to buy a new tire because that’s what I need most to keep working,” Del Ayre said.
Michael Marzan, 47, of Barangay 51, Buyuan, said the assistance would help cover household expenses and support his family.
The fuel subsidy will be distributed a day before the opening of the 2026 Ibalong Festival, when an increase in commuter and tourist traffic is expected in the city. (PNA)
