Cebu City Distributes P500K Fuel Cards to Barangays to Sustain Essential Services
In a significant move to bolster local operations, Cebu City has distributed fleet cards valued at P500,000 each to 80 barangays. This initiative aims to cover the fuel needs of emergency response and garbage collection vehicles, ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of basic services and mobility programs. The distribution comes as a direct response to escalating fuel prices, which threaten to disrupt critical frontline activities.
Official Handover and Agreement Details
The Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) president, Franklin Ong, spearheaded the distribution and signing of Acknowledgment and Agreement forms on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the ABC office. Mayor Nestor Archival, City Administrator Albert Tan, and Chief of Staff Kenneth Siasar personally handed over the assistance to barangay officials. According to the agreement, the fuel allocation is valid from April 17 to May 17, 2026, or until the funds are fully consumed, providing a one-month window for utilization.
The allocation was determined by the Office of the Mayor and the Liga ng mga Barangay, based on the specific operational requirements of each barangay. This targeted approach ensures that resources are directed where they are most needed, supporting transportation, emergency response, and other essential services.
Proposed P35-Million Subsidy for Drivers
In a parallel effort, the Cebu City Government is finalizing a proposed P35-million subsidy program to assist drivers impacted by rising fuel costs. During a recent City Council budget hearing, Chief of Staff Kenneth Siasar revealed that the city is consolidating data to identify beneficiaries. This group includes jeepney drivers, taxi drivers, delivery riders, and motorcycle-for-hire operators, with an expected coverage of 10,000 to 15,000 individuals.
Siasar emphasized that the financial assistance will be distributed "equitably" rather than equally, noting that some sectors might receive less if they have already benefited from National Government aid. The funds for this subsidy will be sourced from the City’s maintenance and other operating expenses, highlighting a commitment to immediate relief measures.
Council Concerns and Safeguard Proposals
However, the subsidy program has sparked concerns among City Council members regarding the lack of clear guidelines and validation mechanisms. Some councilors warned that without proper safeguards, there is a risk of misallocation or politicization, especially with barangay elections approaching. To address these issues, suggestions have been made to require barangay certification of beneficiary lists and to collaborate with transport groups and cooperatives for verification purposes.
Siasar responded by stating that the priority is to provide immediate relief, with the subsidy to be released in cash once guidelines and beneficiary lists are finalized. This approach aims to balance urgency with accountability, ensuring that aid reaches those in genuine need.
Overall, these initiatives underscore Cebu City’s proactive stance in mitigating the effects of fuel price hikes on public services and vulnerable sectors, fostering resilience in the community.
