The Department of Transportation (DOTr) aims to iron out its plans to contract the services of public utility vehicles (PUVs) and subsidize commuters’ trips by the end of the Holy Week.

In a Tuesday report by RH 52 Edniel Parrosa, the initiative seeks to help sustain PUV drivers’ incomes amid soaring oil prices.

During an ambush interview in Camp Crame, DOTr Secretary Giovanni “Banoy” Lopez said they have pressed for the release of the ₱1 billion fund allocated for service contracting.

The transport agency is examining whether to shoulder the cost of providing discounts or to offer free rides using a number of PUVs. Moreover, Lopez admitted that not all routes can be granted subsidies, due to the limited funds.

“Kasi ang objective namin ngayon is paano ba ito pahabain, pai-stretch, the amount of the money, especially sa magtatanggal pa tayo ng ₱300 million at kung saang mga areas targeted approach po dapat tayo dito, very tactical and scientific, kasi ₱1 billion alone, nationwide, baka will last us only five days, kapag gusto natin kunin lahat ng ruta,” the transport secretary said.

Apart from the service contracting program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has handed out fuel subsidies for PUV drivers.