In response to escalating fuel prices, the Panabo City government has announced a comprehensive assistance program for pedicab drivers, encompassing both franchised and non-franchised operators. The local government unit (LGU) has dedicated a substantial ₱20 million budget to this initiative, with half designated for fuel subsidies and the remaining half for rice assistance, aiming to alleviate the economic strain on this vital sector of the community.
Targeted Support for All Drivers
City officials have emphasized that the aid will be distributed in the form of subsidies rather than cash, ensuring direct support for essential needs. Executive secretary Jo-Anne Relampagos confirmed in an interview with the Panabo City Information Office on April 8, 2026, that the program covers all pedicab drivers, regardless of their franchise status. She stated, "We also provided fuel and rice subsidies to all pedicab drivers, whether they have a franchise or not," highlighting the inclusive nature of the effort.
Streamlined Registration and Coordination
To expedite the process, the LGU will collaborate closely with barangays to compile a masterlist of beneficiaries, with on-site registration planned to facilitate access for drivers. Relampagos noted that both franchised and non-franchised drivers will be listed through their respective barangays, and the city will outline specific requirements for colorum drivers, or those operating without a franchise. The City Council is currently finalizing approval for the subsidy, while the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) is preparing for the fund release, ensuring a swift and organized distribution once the beneficiary list is finalized.
Addressing Previous Exclusion Issues
This initiative arises from concerns raised by drivers who were excluded from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) ₱5,000 cash relief assistance (CRA). In Panabo City, approximately 3,443 beneficiaries are slated to receive the CRA, but some drivers faced disqualification due to issues such as multiple vehicle registrations or name discrepancies. Relampagos assured that the city has coordinated with the DSWD to resolve these problems, including correcting name errors and incorporating excluded drivers into future payouts, thereby enhancing the overall support system for the community.
The Panabo City government's proactive measures underscore its commitment to supporting local livelihoods amidst economic challenges, with the ₱20 million program set to provide critical relief to pedicab drivers affected by the ongoing fuel price crisis.
