Special payouts for PUV drivers begin

MANILA, Philippines — Special cash aid payouts for unserved and unlisted public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers in Metro Manila has started.

Starting with tricycle drivers yesterday, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is conducting payouts from April 14 to 19.

Jeepney drivers who have yet to receive P5,000 in cash assistance and those not included in initial beneficiary lists can queue today.

Transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers can claim their cash aid tomorrow, followed by motorcycle taxis and service delivery riders on April 17, 18 and 19.

Four payout sites will cater to TNVS drivers, motorcycle taxis and service delivery riders: Caloocan Sports Complex, Quezon Memorial Circle, Makati Coliseum and Taguig Lakefront community park.

Beneficiaries are not allowed to send representatives to claim the cash aid, the DSWD said.

The first round of payouts for PUV drivers nationwide will be finished by April 30, according to Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

At the House hearing on Monday, Gatchalian said President Marcos’ directive is to “ensure that each driver or rider should not be left out.”

If fuel prices continue to increase, Gatchalian said the DSWD would use digital payouts for drivers with electronic wallet accounts.

“In succeeding steps, sectors such as TNVS, motorcycle taxis and delivery services; those are with e-wallets. We have tendered a request for quotations from all players and we should be able to partner with them in time for the next round of assistance,” Gatchalian said.