Manila: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Friday reiterated the DSWD's firm stance on ensuring that all eligible transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers and delivery riders are included in the government's cash relief assistance, as he called out gaps in the submitted beneficiary lists from some transport network companies (TNCs).
According to Philippines News Agency, issues in list submission affected the inclusion of several beneficiaries, particularly riders from Lalamove. During his visit to a payout site for delivery riders at the Kartilya ng Katipunan in Manila, Secretary Gatchalian disclosed that Lalamove did not submit or failed to submit their listing on time. As a result, many Lalamove riders were not accommodated for the financial aid.
Despite these challenges, the DSWD chief assured affected drivers that corrective measures are already in place, including the conduct of special payouts, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure every public utility vehicle (PUV) driver receives the financial aid from the government.
In a separate press forum at the Kapihan ng Samahang Plaridel held at the Rizal Park Hotel in Manila, Secretary Gatchalian also raised concerns over the list submitted by Grab, citing significant discrepancies that led to the exclusion of many drivers. He explained that some drivers were excluded due to the presence of 'tempo drivers,' or those onboarded by TNCs without complete regulatory documentation.
Gatchalian emphasized that the DSWD's role is to provide assistance and not regulate TNC operations, but stressed the need for full transparency to ensure no driver is left behind. He urged TNCs to provide complete and unfiltered lists of their drivers to enable the government to extend the necessary aid.
Secretary Gatchalian made it clear that now is not the time to play games, as the drivers are in need. He committed to pressuring TNCs until they submit the complete lists, ensuring that no driver or chauffeur is left without the assistance they deserve.
