The Department of Agriculture (DA) confirmed that a fuel subsidy for small-scale fishermen will be released to help offset rising fuel costs caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

In an exclusive interview on DZRH's Balansyado, DA Assistant Secretary Arnel De Mesa said the agency currently has ₱150 million allocated, with ₱100 million ready for immediate distribution. Each qualified fisherman owning a vessel not exceeding three gross tonners will receive ₱3,000, while part of the fund also supports farmers registered under the RSVSA program.

De Mesa said the distribution has not yet started, but preparations are complete, and the subsidy will be distributed using an intervention monitoring card system to ensure proper tracking and accountability.

The DA has also instructed its personnel to reduce fuel and electricity consumption in government offices as a cost-saving measure amid global oil price increases.

While acknowledging the limited size of the fund, De Mesa said the subsidy will provide immediate relief to affected fishermen, especially if the situation remains short-term.