ILOILO City — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has released nearly P330 million in emergency cash assistance to almost 66,000 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across Western Visayas, as the government intensifies efforts to cushion the impact of soaring fuel prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East.
As of May 31, a total of 65,983 drivers had received P5,000 each under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, translating to P329.915 million in aid disbursed to transport workers affected by rising petroleum costs.
The largest share of beneficiaries came from the tricycle sector, with 53,989 drivers receiving a combined P274.944 million. They were followed by 6,381 jeepney drivers, who received P31.905 million, and 4,613 transport network vehicle service (TNVS) and transport network company (TNC) drivers, who received P23.065 million.
The DSWD said the number of beneficiaries is expected to increase further as it prepares a special payout for drivers who have yet to claim their assistance.
“Para naman sa mga benepisyaryong hindi pa nakapag-claim ng kanilang ayuda, antabayanan ang mga susunod na anunsyo kaugnay ng Special Payout,” a DSWD Region 6 advisory read.
The agency said the list of jeepney, TNC and TNVS driver-beneficiaries was provided by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) and subsequently subjected to a de-duplication process by DSWD-6 to prevent duplicate claims.
Meanwhile, the list of tricycle driver-beneficiaries was sourced from local government units and likewise underwent verification and de-duplication by the DSWD.
Only drivers were qualified to receive the assistance, while operators were excluded unless they personally drive their units.
To claim the aid, beneficiaries were required to present the original copy of their driver’s license along with three photocopies bearing their signature specimens.
The cash payout program began on April 8 and concluded on May 29.
The release of the assistance followed a directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian to provide financial relief to transport workers grappling with the continuing increase in fuel prices./PN
