A vast majority of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who received government cash assistance reported improved financial relief, according to a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey.
The commissioned survey, conducted from May 26 to 27 and involving 1,200 beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Cash Relief Assistance (CRA) program, found that 96.3 percent of respondents were satisfied with the P5,000 aid provided by the government.
The survey was commissioned under the Australian government’s Social Protection, Inclusion and Gender Equality (SPRING) Program.
Results showed that most recipients said the cash aid helped them remain in or return to active transport operations, particularly amid continued pressures from fuel prices and daily operating costs.
Of those surveyed, 66.8 percent said the assistance “helped greatly,” while 29.5 percent said it “helped somewhat.” Regional data indicated the strongest positive response in Mindanao at 79.6 percent, followed by the Visayas at 76.3 percent, and Balance Luzon at 72.6 percent.
Beneficiaries reported using the funds primarily for essential household needs such as food, as well as transport-related expenses including fuel.
DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the findings will help guide the agency in refining its assistance programs for drivers still affected by fluctuating fuel prices.
She added that the government is studying the possibility of a second tranche of aid after the current distribution cycle, which began in March and is targeted for completion by June 30.
As of June 19, the DSWD has released over P9.1 billion in cash assistance to more than 1.8 million drivers and transport workers nationwide.
Officials said the program remains part of ongoing efforts to cushion vulnerable sectors from economic pressures, with further support measures still under evaluation in line with government directives.