Manila, June 24 -- The Philippine government is expediting efforts to roll out fuel subsidies to shield public utility drivers (PUVs), farmers, and fisherfolk from the impact of soaring fuel prices amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

Department of Energy (DOE) Officer-in-Charge Sharon Garin said Tuesday the government is coordinating with relevant agencies to finalize the distribution of the subsidy programs.

This comes after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. met with his economic team to assess the potential effect of the Iran-Israel conflict on local fuel supply and prices.

"We also have an ongoing meeting with DOTr (Department of Transportation) and DA (Department of Agriculture) and LTFRB (Land Transporation Franchising and Re...