In a significant move to address the impacts of the ongoing national fuel price crisis, Cebu Vice Governor Glenn Soco has extended vital assistance to the fishing community. On Wednesday, April 22, 2026, Soco personally visited fishermen in Barangay 8 and Barangay Putat in Tuburan City, delivering aid packages to over 100 individuals in this sector.
Direct Support for Fishermen Amid Economic Strain
The aid distribution included five kilograms of rice and canned goods per recipient, providing immediate relief to families grappling with rising costs. This initiative highlights the provincial government's commitment to supporting not only drivers but also fishermen, who rely heavily on pumpboats and are similarly affected by soaring fuel prices.
Expanding Aid Beyond the Transport Sector
Previously, Soco had announced that assistance would target Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) drivers directly impacted by fuel price hikes. However, the program has now broadened to include fishermen, acknowledging their vulnerability in the current economic climate. The distribution effort this week also involved Board Member Lorenz Lagon and Bokal Oloy Corominas, showcasing a collaborative approach to relief operations.
Ongoing Relief Efforts Across Cebu
This latest aid follows similar distributions in recent weeks, where the Cebu Provincial Government provided rice and P3,000 cash assistance to habal-habal drivers and other transport sector members. Authorities anticipate further aid rollouts in additional municipalities in the coming weeks, as part of a sustained response to the crisis.
The proactive measures by Vice Governor Soco and local officials underscore a dedicated effort to mitigate the hardships faced by various communities in Cebu, ensuring that support reaches those most in need during these challenging times.
