DoTR, LTFRB start distribution of fuel cards to jeepney operators

The Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board have started distributing fuel cards to the first batch of jeepney franchise operators under the Pantawid Pasada

Program of the government.

At least 500 fuel cards were initially distributed yesterday to legitimate franchise holders with surnames starting from A to M at the Land Transportation Office in Quezon City.

Pantawid Pasada Cards will be distributed today to operators with surnames starting from N to Z.

LTFRB Chairman Atty. Martin Delgra said that the official list of beneficiaries of the fuel subsidy program can be viewed at the LTFRB website.

Upon claiming the card, Delgra said the recipients should present an original valid ID, photocopy of the valid ID, one ID picture, and proof of franchise of the operator such as Certificate of Public Convenience, or franchise verification.

Around 179,000 valid jeepney franchise holders nationwide will benefit from the government’s fuel subsidy program.

Recipients will be given a card containing 15,000 subsidy from July to December to help them cope with increasing pump prices.

The Pantawid Pasada Fuel Cards, which were processed by the Land Bank of the Philippines, will indicate the complete name of the franchise holder, plate number of PUJ, region where the franchise was registered, and the card number to avoid misuse.

“The fuel card is only valid for fuel purchases only at participating petroleum retail outlets or gasoline stations, with ‘Pantawid Pasada Card Accepted Here’ sign posted,” the LTFRB said.

According to the agency, any violation in the use of the card such as purchasing of other products aside from fuel will automatically disqualify the card owner from the Pantawid Pasada Fuel Program and its benefits.

Last week, the DOTr and LTFRB, with the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Department of Energy (DOE), and the LBP signed a joint memorandum circular on the Pantawid Pasada Program.

Under Section 82 of the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, qualified jeepney franchise holders are entitled to fuel vouchers as prices of fuel are expected to increase.

Next year, each eligible franchise holder under the fuel subsidy program is expected to receive 120,000 annually.