The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is set to commence the distribution of P5,000 in financial assistance to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers starting next week, aiming to alleviate the impact of persistently rising fuel prices. This initiative, announced during a press conference, targets drivers across various transport modes, including tricycles, jeepneys, taxis, buses, UV Express vehicles, and transportation network vehicle services (TNVS).
Rollout Strategy and Funding Details
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian revealed that the payout will kick off in Metro Manila on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with a phased expansion to other regions nationwide. He emphasized that this is a presidential directive, ensuring a coordinated effort across the country. "The order from our president is nationwide, so we will just kick it off in Metro Manila, but it will follow in other regions. It won't take long; it will happen one after the other. The DSWD has nationwide offices who will conduct simultaneous payouts," Gatchalian stated.
The funding for this aid program is sourced from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which has allocated P60 billion for the current year. Gatchalian further explained that P30 billion has been earmarked specifically to address ongoing crises, such as the Middle East conflict, ensuring readiness for sustained support. "The instruction from our president is that it is at our disposal. We have already lined up P30 billion so that if this crisis in the Middle East persists, it won't be a one-time thing; the P30 billion is on standby, and the DSWD is fully prepared," he added.
Government Coordination and Eligibility
This initiative represents a whole-of-government approach, with mayors and local government units (LGUs) actively involved in compiling lists of eligible drivers, particularly for tricycle operators. Gatchalian highlighted that this collaboration aims to protect vulnerable groups, especially drivers affected by external economic pressures. "The mayors are also prepared; this is a whole-of-government approach to ensure that the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable, particularly our drivers impacted by the crisis in the Middle East, do not sink under these circumstances," he noted.
According to Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Giovanni Lopez, over 360,000 drivers, excluding tricycle operators, are expected to benefit from this program. The DSWD is also coordinating with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to extend similar financial assistance to fishermen, broadening the scope of support amid economic challenges.
