Metro Manila, Philippines – Public transport drivers outside Metro Manila will receive their P5,000 cash relief assistance beginning April 6, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on Sunday, March 22.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) started releasing the cash aid through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program to tricycle drivers in Metro Manila on March 17.
Around 98,000 tricycle drivers have already received the aid, while the DSWD said it will have another payout date for those unpaid and additional beneficiaries endorsed by local government units.
The DSWD will roll out the cash relief to drivers of jeepneys, motorcycle taxis, TNVS, and delivery riders based in the National Capital Region on Tuesday, March 24.
After Holy Week, the government will provide assistance in other provinces and regions.
The AICS handout is different from the fuel subsidy, which will be released by the Department of Transportation.
In his vlog, Marcos said the government will continue to provide the aid following his decision to suspend the planned fare hike on various transportation modes.
He stressed that the impact of costly fuel must not be passed on to commuters.
Transport groups and drivers, particularly jeepney drivers and operators, who participated in the recent strike have been pushing for fare increases amid a continued surge in oil prices.
“Naintindihan natin ang sigaw ng mga nagpoprotesta na kababayan nating nasa sektor na ito. Pero gusto kong ulitin sa inyo, hindi kayo maiiwanan. Hindi kayo pababayaan ng pamahalaan,” Marcos said.
[Translation: We understand the calls of protesters in this sector. But I want to reiterate, you will not be left out. The government will not abandon you.]
The president said the government will help both commuters and transport drivers through the “libreng sakay (free trip)” program nationwide, train fare discounts, and toll fee discounts.
