As fuel prices continue to climb, hundreds of motorcycle riders found relief on Thursday, March 19, after Don Macchiatos Philippines provided free full-tank refills during a fuel giveaway at Shell South Road Properties.
The activity, which started at 1 p.m. along the Cebu South Coastal Road in Poblacion, Talisay City, drew long lines of riders, including delivery workers and security personnel, all seeking to ease the impact of rising fuel costs.
At the station, diesel was priced at P117.80 per liter, while gasoline reached P94.50 per liter.
Aside from the fuel assistance, participants also received free drinks from Don Macchiatos and Don Lemon, offering a brief refreshment as they went about their daily routes.
For beneficiaries like Archie Padaya, a security guard, the support translated into immediate savings.
“Dako na kaayong tabang ka namo,” he said, expressing gratitude for the free full-tank refill that would help reduce his daily expenses.
Don Macchiatos Philippines said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to giving back to the community, particularly to those who rely on transportation for their livelihood.
Ariel Alegado, COO of Don Macchiatos Philippines, said that this program is to give back to the community and to alleviate the situation amid the rising fuel.
“We hope that through this, we can provide relief to the Cebuano people and help them cope with the high fuel prices,” he said during an interview.
He said that they did not expect anything in return but only help in these trying times.
Alegado said that they might have a the same program soon while hoping that situation in Middle East will improve to ease down fuel prices.
As the giveaway continued throughout the day, more riders arrived, highlighting the growing strain of fuel costs on everyday commuters.
For many, a single full tank already means several days of saved expenses—an immediate and practical form of relief amid rising prices.
Photo from Jacq Hernandez
