
The Philippines’ cost-of-living crisis has worsened, with jeepney drivers and operators enduring crippling fuel costs while oil corporations post staggering profits. Transport group Piston is sounding the alarm on systemic inequities, government negligence, and policies that prioritize corporate greed over public welfare.
Jeepney sector crushed by fuel prices, neglect
Jeepney drivers and operators, who serve over 40% of Filipino commuters, face unsustainable financial strain. Fuel prices have surged by 10% since January 2025, with minimal relief from a negligible oil price rollback on January 28. Drivers now spend up to 60% of their daily earnings on fuel alone, leaving families struggling to afford basic necessities.
“We wake up at dawn, drive for 16 hours, yet still cannot feed our families,” said Ely Villena, Piston spokesperson. “While the government ignores our calls to remove oppressive oil taxes, oil companies and politicians grow richer. This isn’t just unfair—it’s exploitation.”
Oil giants profit amid public suffering
In stark contrast, Shell Philippines and Petron reported a combined net income of ₱5.33 billion in Q1 2024. Piston condemns the deregulated fuel pricing system, which enables corporations to impose overpriced rates with impunity. “These companies thrive during crises, while poor drivers and commuters bear the burden,” said Mody Floranda, Piston National President and Makabayan senatorial candidate.
Marcos Jr. budget priorities: slashing social services, fueling corruption
The crisis is exacerbated by the Marcos Jr. administration’s controversial budget allocations. Funding for healthcare, agriculture, social welfare, and employment programs has been slashed, while budgets for infrastructure, military spending, debt servicing, and pork barrel projects as well as confidential and intelligence funds—opportunities for electoral fraud and corruption—have ballooned.
Meanwhile, excessive fines, penalties, and costly LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) transactions tied to the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) compliance further drain drivers’ incomes. Piston argues these policies are tools of further economic persecution and corruption, designed to squeeze small operators out of the industry.
“Marcos Jr.’s inaction and impunity are no simple incidents—they’re symptoms of a broken system,” Floranda declared. “The people must unite to hold this government accountable for its abuse and exploitation.”