ILOILO City – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has released more than P114 million in emergency cash assistance to nearly 23,000 tricycle drivers across Western Visayas as of 5 p.m. on April 18, in a major push to cushion the transport sector from rising economic pressures.
Data from DSWD Region 6 showed that P40.2 million was distributed to 8,040 drivers in component and highly urbanized cities, while P74.625 million went to 14,925 drivers in various municipalities. Each qualified beneficiary received P5,000 under the Cash Relief Assistance (CRA) program through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).
The aid rollout forms part of the directive of Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to ensure government support reaches sectors most affected by economic strain, particularly transport workers, and aligns with the guidance of Rex Gatchalian to sustain responsive social protection programs.
DSWD-6 clarified that only legitimate tricycle drivers are eligible for the assistance, not operators — unless the operator also personally drives the unit.
Regional Director Joselito Estember said payouts in remaining municipalities are still ongoing, with schedules to be announced through the agency’s official platforms.
The agency emphasized that beneficiary lists are certified by local government units (LGUs), which serve as licensing authorities, while DSWD conducts validation and fund disbursement.
Officials warned that individuals listed but later verified as operators — not drivers — during payout will not receive the assistance.
Meanwhile, legitimate drivers whose names are missing from the list may coordinate with their respective Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Associations (TODA) and LGUs for certification and inclusion in subsequent payouts.
Those unable to claim their assistance during scheduled distributions will be accommodated through special payout schedules to be announced by LGUs, DSWD-6 added./PN
