Senator Risa Hontiveros on Thursday called for stronger, worker-centered government programs to cushion the impact of the ongoing oil crisis, warning that wage increases alone are not enough to address rising living costs.

Speaking before members of the Philippine Metalworkers’ Alliance in Lipa, Batangas during Labor Day commemorations, Hontiveros stressed that workers continue to struggle as increases in wages are offset by surging prices of food and transportation.

She proposed reallocating ₱30 billion from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development to the Service Contracting Program of the Department of Transportation (DOTr).

The move aims to guarantee stable income for jeepney and bus drivers and ensure uninterrupted public transport operations.

Hontiveros also pushed for a ₱52.8-billion supplemental budget, which includes a ₱12-billion subsidy for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers, Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) drivers, and delivery riders affected by high fuel costs.

The senator emphasized the need for long-term solutions, saying government assistance should provide sustained relief rather than temporary aid. She called for broader reforms to address gaps in food security, transportation, and public services.

Hontiveros also urged workers to remain hopeful and united, assuring them that no one would be left behind amid economic challenges.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis Pangilinan expressed support for wage increases, saying higher pay is not charity but a matter of justice for workers severely affected by the fuel crisis.