“The Impact of Rising Global Oil Prices on Philippine Jeepney Drivers During the 2026 U.S.–Iran Conflict: A Situational Analysis”

This study examined the socio-economic effects of rising global oil prices on Philippine jeepney drivers during the 2026 U.S.–Iran conflict. Anchored on the relationship between global oil market instability and local livelihood vulnerability, the study employed a mixed-methods descriptive-survey design involving 50 active jeepney drivers selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered using a researcher-made survey questionnaire that measured respondents’ profile, awareness of fuel price causes, operational expenses, income, working hours, challenges, coping mechanisms, and perceptions of government fuel subsidies. Quantitative data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and weighted mean, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic analysis. Findings revealed that average daily fuel expenses increased from ₱871.45 to ₱2,347.50, equivalent to a 169.38% increase, while average daily net income declined from ₱1,210.46 to ₱550.23, reflecting a 54.54% reduction. Drivers also extended their working hours from 9.66 to 10.94 hours per day. The major challenges included stress, physical fatigue, difficulty meeting household and school-related needs, delayed meals, debt accumulation, and reduced financial security. Although 60.0% of respondents received fuel subsidies with a mean value of ₱5,700.00, many considered the assistance insufficient. The study concludes that the oil crisis severely affected the livelihood sustainability and welfare of jeepney drivers. It recommends temporary fuel excise tax suspension, dynamic subsidy adjustment, and improved digitalized subsidy distribution. The study supports SDG 8, SDG 11, SDG 16, and SDG 17 by addressing decent work, sustainable transport, responsive governance, and stakeholder coordination. Its sustainability impact centers on socio-economic, public transport, community, and policy sustainability for vulnerable transport workers.