The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has disbursed more than P9.1 billion in cash assistance to around 1.8 million public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers nationwide as part of the government’s response to rising fuel prices linked to global tensions in the Middle East.
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said on Monday that the bulk of the payout—about 91.67 percent or P5.978 billion—went to 1.195 million tricycle drivers, who make up the largest share of beneficiaries.
She added that P1.572 billion was released to 314,390 drivers of private express and messenger delivery services, while P593.455 million went to 118,691 public utility jeepney drivers.
Motorcycle taxi drivers received P521.595 million for 104,319 beneficiaries, while transport network vehicle service drivers were allocated P446.370 million for 89,274 recipients.
The assistance forms part of the agency’s cash relief program under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) aimed at cushioning the impact of sustained fuel price increases on the transport sector.
Dumlao said payout operations remain ongoing for other qualified drivers who have yet to receive the P5,000 aid.
She assured that distributions are being conducted in an orderly manner to ensure all eligible beneficiaries are served.
“Isinasagawa natin ang payouts sa maayos at organisadong paraan upang matiyak na lahat ng kwalipikadong benepisyaryo ay mabibigyan ng tulong,” she said.