NIR releases PHP77.035M fuel aid to drivers

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Negros Island Region distributed PHP77.035 million in fuel assistance to 15,417 tricycle drivers across 43 municipalities on Thursday.

The figure represents 92.39% of the 16,687 targeted beneficiaries in the region.

Each beneficiary received PHP5,000 in fuel subsidy.

The DSWD said the cash relief assistance remains a vital intervention for vulnerable sectors, particularly those affected by economic challenges.

The agency said it remains committed to reaching the remaining beneficiaries to ensure no eligible individual is left behind.

Monitoring and coordination are ongoing to address gaps and complete the distribution as soon as possible.

The latest payout followed the release of PHP169.85 million in cash relief assistance to 33,970 tricycle drivers in 19 cities across the region from April 8 to 10.

That three-day payout operation posted a 97.13% accomplishment rate.

Meanwhile, 1,780 jeepney drivers in Bacolod City received a PHP1,000 fuel subsidy from Bacolod Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez on Thursday.

“In these difficult times that fuel prices increase, we should not neglect our drivers who serve the community daily,” Benitez said.

Benitez also led the launch of fuel cards on Thursday to ensure the assistance is immediately usable and directly supports the drivers’ livelihood.

Through the initiative, Benitez said his office aims to provide practical support to help sustain the daily operations of various transport groups across the city.

He said the effort forms part of his office’s continuing initiatives to provide responsive and immediate relief to essential sectors, particularly those most vulnerable to economic challenges.

Separately, about 200 taxi drivers in Bacolod City received rice assistance from the city government on Thursday.

Validation of their list for fuel assistance from the national government is ongoing.