The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has successfully provided cash relief assistance to more than 8,000 tricycle drivers across Western Visayas, offering crucial support amid escalating fuel costs and economic challenges in the transportation sector.
Initial Distribution Reaches 8,450 Beneficiaries
According to DSWD-6 regional information officer Therese Fely Legaste, the preliminary distribution conducted on April 8 was executed in an organized and efficient manner, targeting major cities to alleviate the burden of soaring gasoline prices. The total number of beneficiaries stands at 8,450 tricycle drivers, with allocations as follows: 1,983 from Iloilo City, 2,600 from Passi City, and 3,867 from Roxas City.
Verification Process Ensures Accuracy
Legaste emphasized that the beneficiary list was sourced from local government units, encompassing tricycle drivers with valid franchises and licenses. This list underwent rigorous verification by the DSWD to prevent duplication and ensure that only eligible individuals received the aid.
Wider Payout Scheduled for April 16
Following this initial phase, the DSWD has confirmed plans for an extensive payout on April 16, aiming to reach over 47,000 additional tricycle drivers throughout the region. This expansion will cover all municipalities, ensuring broader access to the financial assistance.
Program Details and Recommendations
The P5,000 cash aid is distributed under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, which operates separately from the fuel subsidy provided by the Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. For drivers not included in the "clean list," the DSWD recommends contacting their local government units and Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODAs) for further guidance.
Future Rollouts to Include Other Transport Sectors
After addressing the tricycle sector, the DSWD Central Office has directed that other public transport drivers be incorporated into subsequent rollout phases. This move aims to extend support to a wider range of individuals affected by economic pressures in the transportation industry.
