LTFRB Programs Exempted from Comelec Spending Ban Amid Fuel Price Surge

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has secured an exemption from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) spending ban for its programs aimed at mitigating the effects of soaring fuel prices. This exemption allows for the continued support of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators. According to Acting LTFRB Chairman Greg Pua Jr., the programs exempted from the ban include the service contracting program, Love Bus, free rides, fuel subsidy programs, and the P12-per-liter fuel discount for PUV drivers. The public transport modernization program (PTMP), which includes a three-month subsidy for the monthly amortization and operational expenses of PUV operators, is also covered by the exemption. The service contracting program provides support based on actual and validated transport services rendered, while the fuel subsidy aids qualified PUV operators and drivers in mitigating higher fuel costs and sustaining operations. The PTMP aims to modernize and improve public transportation. Comelec Chairman George Garcia approved the recommendation of the poll body’s law department to exempt the LTFRB subsidy programs from the spending ban. A certificate of exemption is required to implement social welfare projects and services during the ban, according to a Comelec resolution. "On behalf of the PUV operators and commuters, the LTFRB expresses its gratitude to the Comelec chairman for understanding the concerns we raised," Pua said. "This only proved the same direction that we want to pursue: to maximize all the necessary assistance to the Filipino people at a time when they needed the government the most." Pua committed to strictly observe all the conditions set by the Comelec for granting the exemption. Among these conditions is that no election candidate should be directly involved in the implementation of the LTFRB programs. The agency was also ordered to submit a periodic written report of the disbursements made in relation to the exempted programs. "The exemption is a big relief for the beneficiaries of the subsidy programs, especially at this time that they are really in need of government assistance," Pua added. "We assure the Comelec of the LTFRB’s compliance with the conditions set."