Senator JV Ejercito has called on government agencies to ensure transparency and prevent irregularities in the distribution of financial assistance amid the ongoing oil price crisis.

Ejercito stressed that authorities must not repeat issues encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic, where reports of deductions in cash aid surfaced. He warned that the current crisis should not be used for personal gain, saying aid must reach beneficiaries in full.

He also said that no one should profit from the crisis we are currently experiencing, echoing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s previous statement, “Mahiya naman kayo.”

The lawmaker also issued a strong warning against corruption, saying there is a “special place in hell” for those who exploit public funds intended for struggling sectors.

He noted that cash-based assistance carries a higher risk of misuse, citing past instances where P10,000 aid was allegedly reduced by P1,000 to P2,000 during the pandemic.

Currently, the transport sector remains the priority beneficiary, with drivers receiving P5,000 in fuel subsidies as part of the government’s response to rising oil prices.