Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has initiated the distribution of nearly PHP1.5 billion in cash aid to over 216,000 drivers in the transport sector, including motorcycle taxi and delivery riders, across Metro Manila. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced this development, highlighting the department's efforts to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to Philippines News Agency, the cash relief program targets tricycle, jeepney, ride-hailing, delivery, and motorcycle taxi drivers. The distribution is being executed in phases, with plans for subsequent payouts already in place. Gatchalian emphasized that the initial tranche is just the beginning, and further distributions will follow.

Following the Metro Manila rollout, the DSWD plans to expand the program to provinces across the country. Gatchalian noted that an estimated 750,000 tricycle drivers and operators are expected to benefit from the provincial expansion. He indicated that the program would target high-density areas, with local government units already submitting their lists of beneficiaries. In Luzon, priority areas include Region 4A (Calabarzon) and parts of Region 3 (Central Luzon).

Gatchalian also addressed the need for special payouts for drivers who were not included in the initial beneficiary lists. He acknowledged challenges with outdated lists from TNVS companies and jeepney operators, which sometimes overlook drivers who also work as delivery or motorcycle riders. The DSWD is coordinating with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) to ensure accurate beneficiary lists.

The process involves three layers of verification: lists provided by private companies, cross-matching by the LTFRB, and a final check by the DSWD for duplicate names. Local government units are assisting by consolidating and submitting their lists to the DSWD.

Gatchalian urged drivers to verify their inclusion on the beneficiary list before visiting payout centers. The LTFRB, DSWD, and local government units will post the names and payout schedules in advance. Gatchalian expressed his commitment to addressing any discrepancies, stating, "One driver that is not on the list but should be there is one too many drivers in my book."