Fuel Prices, Inflation and the Fight for Transport Reform After SONA 2026

The country’s transport sector remains under growing pressure as fuel prices, inflation, and operating expenses continue to increase. During this edition of The Agenda, hosted by Atty. Siegfred Mison, transport leaders examine the challenges confronting public utility drivers, operators, and commuters while assessing the government’s response following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s SONA 2026.

Joining the discussion are Manibela Transport and Drivers’ Association Chairman and President Mar Valbuena and motorcycle transport advocate Jayson Luna. They discuss the realities facing the transport industry, from rising petroleum prices and transport modernization to the long-term effects of inflation on drivers’ livelihoods.

The forum also explores why many transport groups believe repeated financial assistance alone cannot resolve the country’s transport problems. Instead, the discussion focuses on structural reforms, including energy security, strategic oil reserves, and sustainable transport policies that could reduce the impact of future fuel price increases and strengthen the economy.

Read the full analysis on fuel prices, inflation, transport modernization, public transportation, economic policy, and the long-term solutions being proposed for the transport sector.