Drivers of traditional jeepneys and UV Express vehicles will receive an increased fuel discount of P12 per liter starting 15 August to cushion the impact of rising oil prices, Malacañang announced.

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto announced the P2 increase — up from the current P10 discount rate — following a Cabinet meeting chaired at Malacañang Palace on 4 August.

With the higher subsidy, qualified public utility vehicle drivers are expected to save up to P1,800 per week.

Recto cited that the initial P10 discount, launched on 2 April, has assisted more than 93,000 drivers nationwide.

The expanded subsidy comes as top government officials meet to fortify economic safeguards, curb inflation, and support key sectors hit by escalating geopolitics and fuel volatility linked to tensions in the Middle East.

“As expected, our countrymen continue to feel the effects of the turmoil in the Middle East. Work must continue, aid must continue, and every sector must feel the presence and concern of the government,” Recto said.

He also directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development to ensure targeted financial aid under the UPLIFT program reaches vulnerable groups, including farmers, fisherfolk, transportation workers, construction crews and low-income earners.

The directive aligns with earlier commitments from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to shield critical industries from external shocks.

“We will not leave anyone behind during this crisis, especially those affected by transportation and agriculture,” Marcos said in a previous statement.

The Malacañang policy meeting was attended by key Cabinet members, including Budget Secretary Kim de Leon, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, Education Secretary Sonny Angara, Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. and Agriculture Undersecretary Roger Navarro.