BACOLOD City — Tricycle drivers in this city who do not have a valid driver’s license will not qualify for the government’s fuel subsidy, as possession of a license remains a primary requirement for financial assistance.
This was emphasized by Dr. Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga, head of the City Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD), during a media interview on March 25 at her office at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC).
She said drivers must present valid licenses to be eligible for the subsidy, effectively disqualifying unlicensed drivers from receiving aid.
On March 24, the city government convened a meeting at the BCGC lobby with presidents of various Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Associations (TODA) to discuss the application process for cash assistance intended for qualified drivers.
Mayor Greg Gasataya led the consultation, stressing the need for an accurate and verified database of beneficiaries amid rising fuel prices.
“We requested this meeting to compile a comprehensive database and have TODA presidents validate their members’ lists. The DSWD has provided guidelines for the fuel subsidy application,” the mayor said.
He underscored that only complete and validated lists submitted before the deadline will be endorsed to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for approval.
Despite this, Gasataya encouraged TODA leaders to also identify non-member drivers affected by the fuel crisis, urging unity within the sector.
“This is the most important time for us to unite, as everyone is affected,” he said, while reminding associations to include only active drivers to avoid discrepancies.
The deadline for submission of verified lists is set on March 26 at 7 p.m., after which the DSSD will process and forward the data to the DSWD.
Meanwhile, TODA leaders welcomed the initiative but raised concerns over rising fuel costs. Pedro Arib, president of the Barangay Banago TODA, expressed hope that his members would benefit from the subsidy.
“Our members are struggling with high fuel prices, and many have families and students to support,” Arib said.
He also called on the city government to address the issue of “colorum” or unregistered tricycles and urged drivers to formalize their registration.
Data from the Business Permits and Licensing Office (BPLO) showed that of the 6,200 registered tricycles in 2025, only 2,600 have secured a mayor’s permit as of March 2026.
City officials earlier met to ensure the immediate rollout of fuel assistance as drivers continue to grapple with increasing fuel expenses./PN
