Government Aid Sustains Livelihood of Jeepney Drivers
Nearly 4,000 drivers in Ilocos Region, including those in San Juan, La Union, received DSWD cash assistance.
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As reported by PIA, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) provided P5,000 in emergency cash assistance to 3,999 jeepney drivers across the Ilocos Region from May 13 to 20. This aid, totaling over P19.9 million, aimed to ease financial strain and sustain livelihoods amid fluctuating fuel prices, following a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
The DSWD Field Office 1 implemented this intervention through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) regional office validated the list of eligible drivers for payout.
Among the beneficiaries was Fortunato Reyes, a jeepney driver from San Juan, La Union. Reyes, who has driven for three decades, stated the assistance helps augment daily earnings, which often fall short of household needs.
While fuel costs have stabilized from previous highs, transport workers continue to face rising operating expenses. The DSWD emphasized that supporting the transport sector, particularly drivers, remains a government priority to ensure they can continue earning and serving commuters.
SOURCE: PIA