Ilocos region: Over 24,000 tricycle drivers in Ilocos Region are set to receive PHP5,000 cash aid on Wednesday from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden caused by the recent surge in oil prices, particularly impacting public utility vehicle drivers.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD Ilocos Region Director Marie Angela Gopalan revealed that the initial beneficiaries include 6,574 drivers from Ilocos Norte, 3,293 from Ilocos Sur, 2,063 from La Union, and 12,625 from Pangasinan. The first round of payouts will take place in several key locations: Laoag and Batac in Ilocos Norte; Vigan and Candon in Ilocos Sur; San Fernando in La Union; and Urdaneta, Alaminos, San Carlos, and Dagupan in Pangasinan. Additional payouts are planned for other areas in the following weeks.

Gopalan emphasized the purpose of this financial assistance is to support drivers struggling with the increased costs of fuel. The aid is intended to help the recipients either purchase gasoline or oil or address their families' essential needs. Recipients were notified through their associations about the scheduled payouts and instructed to bring their valid driver's license and its photocopy for verification.

The assistance program is structured to ensure that active drivers with valid licenses are prioritized. Gopalan advised drivers wishing to verify their inclusion in the list to contact their local tricycle operators and drivers association (TODA), local government units, or local social welfare development offices. She noted that mechanisms are in place to address issues for those whose licenses are in the process of renewal, ensuring that eligible drivers are not excluded from the aid.