Govt mulling Pantawid Pasada extension – DOE chief

The government is mulling the extension of its Pantawid Pasada Program following a series of oil price hikes, Energy Secretary Jose Almendras said Tuesday. Oil companies hiked gasoline and diesel prices on the same day – a move that a militant group said indicates “the failures of the Aquino administration in protecting consumers." http://www.gmanews.tv/story/226648/nation/oil-price-hikes-has-bayan-hitting-pnoy “We will act appropriately. Everything is there and we can move fast – at least for those who have been issued their Pantawid Pasada cards," Almendras said. In May, jeepney drivers received Pantawid Pasada cards loaded with P1,050 each in a nationwide targeted assistance program to give them financial support amid rising oil prices. In the same month, tricycle operators received a similar fuel subsidy at P150 each. A new round of fuel assistance will depend on government’s budget for it, Almendras explained. He also said the government will first have to assess the impact of current world oil prices on Philippine economy. “We're looking at the total economic situation, and not just a trigger mechanism," Almendras said. The distribution of Pantawid Pasada cards is ongoing in the provinces. Meanwhile, amid the series of oil price hikes, transport group Pasang Masda is requesting the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to allow them to temporarily raise the minimum jeepney fare to P8.50, reported GMA News’ “Saksi" newscast Tuesday.
For the latest Philippine news stories and videos, visit GMANews.TV The LTFRB said the agency is still studying the matter — a process that will take more than 30 days, according to “Saksi." — With Paterno Esmaquel/VS,GMA News