The Lapu-Lapu City Government, through its City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO), has identified over 1,700 common riders who may qualify for the National Government’s P5,000 Emergency Cash Assistance program.
Identification of Beneficiaries
CSWDO head Sheila Baylosis said in an interview on Monday, May 25, 2026, that the riders are covered under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Memorandum Circular 07-2026 and are considered part of the “common carrier services” sector eligible for aid. The city government holds a list of 1,749 riders for the fuel subsidy. However, Baylosis clarified that only DSWD 7 can determine who officially qualifies for the emergency cash assistance.
“What the Lapu-Lapu City Government can do is to endorse,” Baylosis stated.
The list of riders has yet to be forwarded to DSWD 7, as the agency is still finalizing its directives. Further instructions regarding the aid distribution will be issued once these directives are complete.
Rice Assistance Distribution
While waiting for the rollout of the financial support, the City Government, through the Crisis Management Committee and under the directive of Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” Chan, has distributed rice assistance to riders. As of May 25, 2026, a total of 534 riders had already claimed sacks of rice from the City Government.
Program Details
The P5,000 Emergency Cash Assistance is a one-time financial support implemented by the DSWD to help individuals and families affected by economic shocks, livelihood disruptions, or crises. This assistance is not a stand-alone permanent program but is typically released under existing social protection mechanisms such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations, targeted fuel subsidy initiatives, or the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program.
Some riders reportedly applied for the aid individually through walk-ins at City Hall, while others came in groups. Baylosis said the City Government will continue facilitating applications and endorsements for riders seeking assistance.
