Davao city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao Region (DSWD-11) has distributed more than PHP68.4 million in cash relief assistance (CRA) to 13,691 tricycle drivers across the Davao Region. The distribution, which began on April 8, targeted a total of 15,549 beneficiaries from 14 cities and municipalities across Davao del Sur and Davao del Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the distribution remains ongoing in five towns within Davao del Sur. Records show that 703 identified beneficiaries have yet to claim their assistance, which represents a remaining balance of PHP351,500. 'Common issues for unclaimed aid involve drivers holding non-professional licenses, while others failed to appear during the scheduled payout,' the agency said.

The relief is implemented under the DSWD's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program to help public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers meet basic needs amid rising operational costs. To qualify for the grant, drivers are required to hold a valid permit and a professional driver's license. During the payout process, beneficiaries must present their original license along with a photocopy bearing three specimen signatures.

'Only qualified beneficiaries will be allowed to claim the assistance. Proxy is not permitted,' DSWD-11 reiterated in a statement. The agency said the rollout of cash relief will continue in other parts of the region in the coming days to reach the remaining target beneficiaries.