LTFRB seeks Comelec exemption from ban on subsidy programs
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to exempt from the government spending ban some of its programs, including the fuel subsidy for public transport drivers and Edsa busway “Libreng Sakay” (free rides).
According to the transport regulatory body, LTFRB acting Chair Greg Pua submitted a letter to the Comelec on Sept. 15 in which he explained that his request covered programs that cater to the transport needs of commuters.
Among these were the service contracting program, “Libreng Sakay” for both the Edsa busway and Love Bus, P12-per-liter fuel subsidy and monthly subsidy for qualified participants of the Public Transport Modernization Program.
“The subject programs are continuing government programs and are not election-related or partisan activities. They are implemented pursuant to existing laws, appropriations, policies and program guidelines,” Pua said in a letter addressed to Comelec Chair George Erwin Garcia.
He assured Garcia that the implementation of the LTFRB programs would comply with objective eligibility requirements, proper documentation, validation, accounting and auditing rules and other safeguards prescribed by Comelec “with no participation or involvement of candidates or political parties.”
Rationale
In line with the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections scheduled on Nov. 2, the Comelec has prohibited the release, disbursement and spending of public funds from Sept. 18 to Nov. 1. The ban is intended to prevent the misuse of taxpayer’s money and avoid influencing voters into favoring a candidate. Only programs that secure an exemption from the poll body will be allowed to continue during the election period.
On Friday, the LTFRB announced that it is suspending the P12-per-liter fuel subsidy program starting on Sept. 18 in line with the election ban.
