Hello PW Readers!

Good morning everyone. It starts with fuel, but it rarely ends there. This week, subsidies are rolling out while transport, electricity, and travel costs begin to shift. Nothing looks extreme yet, but the signals are clear. The ripple effects of higher oil prices are starting to reach everyday life.

Stay Sharp.

Big picture: The government will roll out fuel subsidies nationwide to more transport groups starting April 6, as oil prices climb due to ongoing tensions in the Middle East. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the goal is simple: ease the pressure on drivers and prevent further disruption in daily transport.

What’s happening: Around 100,000 tricycle drivers have already received aid, with more sectors next in line. This includes jeepney drivers, delivery riders, and TNVS operators, alongside farmers and fisherfolk. Cash assistance programs are also being prepared, targeting over 200,000 beneficiaries across sectors.

Why it matters: Rising fuel costs are starting to hit both drivers and commuters. The government has paused fare hikes to protect passengers, but that also squeezes driver income. Subsidies aim to bridge that gap while keeping transport running.

Zoom out: Officials are also securing new oil supply deals with countries like India and Japan, while pushing short-term fixes such as fare discounts, stable food prices, and power supply support.

San Miguel Corp. and Metro Pacific Tollways Corp. launched temporary toll rebates for buses, jeepneys, and cargo trucks to ease fuel-driven cost pressures. Discounts roll back rates on major expressways starting Monday(Today) for up to two months, aiming to support transport operators and stabilize fares as global oil volatility continues.

The United States granted a 30-day waiver for Iranian oil sales at sea to cool surging global prices amid the US-Israel conflict with Iran. Officials said up to 140 million barrels could enter markets quickly, targeting supply shortages. The move aims to stabilize energy costs as geopolitical tensions disrupt oil flows.

Bus operators and airlines are reducing trips a week before Holy Week due to rising fuel prices, pushing fares up and limiting travel options. Provincial bus trips dropped while fares climbed to ₱4,200 from ₱3,600. Philippine Airlines also suspended select Middle East flights, signaling mounting cost pressures across transport businesses.

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The Energy Regulatory Commission said electricity rates may increase in April due to higher generation costs, peso weakness, and strong demand. Estimates suggest a ₱2 to ₱4 per kWh hike, adding around ₱400 for typical households, signaling rising cost pressures for consumers and energy-dependent businesses.

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