By Tracy Cabrera
MALATE, Manila — Amid the continuing energy crisis that has driven up petroleum prices, the Land Bank of the Philippines (LandBank) has stepped up its response by rolling out a coordinated package of fuel subsidies, commuter fare cashback, and concessional lending programs aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food and Transport (UPLIFT) Program.
According to LandBank President and Chief Executive Officer Lynette Ortiz, the state-run bank is supporting the Department of Energy (DoE), Department of Transportation (DoTr), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) in digitally processing the government’s Fuel Subsidy Program, which began on April 14 and will run until July 2026.
Ortiz said that through a secure digital system developed by LandBank, qualified public utility jeepney and UV Express drivers and operators can automatically avail of the ₱10-per-liter diesel discount at participating gasoline stations in Metro Manila.
“The subsidy covers up to 150 liters or ₱1,500 per unit per week. Amid rising fuel costs, we remain committed to delivering responsive and inclusive financial solutions that directly benefit transport operators, commuters, and food producers,” she said.
“Through close coordination with government partners, we ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most, when they need it most,” she added.
In addition, Ortiz announced that to help ease daily commuting costs, LandBank has reintroduced the MRT-3 Balik Pasahe promo, which started on April 15 and will run until July 31, 2026. The promo offers 100-percent fare cashback to MRT-3 passengers who pay using LandBank contactless Visa Debit, Mastercard Prepaid, or Mastercard Credit cards at select turnstiles.
She also noted that beyond immediate relief measures, LandBank is extending longer-term support through its Calamity Assistance and Rehabilitation Efforts for a Sustainable Recovery Plus Lending Program. The program provides financing for transport groups, micro, small and medium enterprises, and other sectors affected by the energy crisis to cover working capital, operating expenses, and recovery needs.
Ortiz added that the agriculture sector is likewise being supported through the Agrisenso Plus Lending Program, which offers loans at three percent per annum to help farmers and fishers manage rising input costs, including fuel and electricity.
“The program is complemented by the Agri-Fishery Support thru Capability Enhancement for Nationwide Development Program, which brings together public and private partners to deliver capacity building, technical training, market linkages, and enterprise development services,” she concluded.
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