Over 4,000 PUJ drivers get P5K one-time aid

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 7 (DSWD-7) has provided cash relief assistance to 4,527 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Central Visayas as of May 25, 2026, under its cash relief assistance program.

The initiative aims to assist drivers affected by rising fuel prices triggered by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Each beneficiary received a one-time cash grant of ?5,000 to help cushion the economic impact on the transport sector.

DSWD-7 said it is targeting a total of 4,848 beneficiaries, with the majority already served during payout operations conducted in May across six sites in the region, including locations in Bohol, Liloan, Mambaling, two areas in Mandaue City, and SM Seaside City Cebu.

The agency partnered with SM Seaside City Cebu for the Cebu City payout, citing the need for a spacious and well-ventilated venue amid extreme heat conditions. The collaboration helped ensure a smoother and more comfortable distribution process for beneficiaries.

DSWD-7 regional director Shalaine Marie Lucero and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board-Central Visayas (LTFRB-7) regional director Abosamen H. Matuan were present during the distribution activities.

In a statement, Lucero emphasized the agency’s commitment to delivering efficient and client-centered services, stressing the importance of orderly and accessible payout operations for beneficiaries.

The agency had earlier extended similar cash assistance to tricycle drivers in Central Visayas in April 2026 as part of its continuing support for transport workers affected by fuel price increases. — /FPL (FREEMAN)