MANILA — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to suspend the scheduled fare increases for public utility vehicles (PUVs) as oil prices continue to rise due to the ongoing Middle East crisis.

In a video message Wednesday, Marcos said the fare hikes, originally approved by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to take effect on March 19, 2026, should be postponed to support commuters, workers, and students.

“I already instructed the DOTr to suspend fare hike and defer it… we need to continue assisting our commuters, workers, and students,” Marcos said.

The DOTr confirmed it would comply with the President’s directive and is fast-tracking the distribution of fuel subsidies for qualified PUV drivers and operators. Programs such as free rides nationwide, fare discounts on MRT and LRT lines, and potential toll discounts are also being prepared.

“Patuloy pong kumikilos ang DOTr at lahat ng attached agencies nito para matiyak na agad na maibibigay ang lahat ng posibleng ayuda at suporta sa mga komyuter, tsuper at transport operators,” the DOTr said.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III welcomed the move, emphasizing the need for transport industry subsidies to help offset losses. Meanwhile, Senator Imee Marcos described the announcement as confusing, noting public uncertainty on the roads amid the fare hike’s suspension and reversal.

The fare hikes were initially set to range from P1 to P40 for most PUVs, excluding regular taxis and motorcycle taxis, following a review by the LTFRB in response to rising petroleum prices.

Marcos assured that the government is prepared to implement additional measures to help both commuters and transport workers as the Middle East tensions continue to affect global fuel prices.