RIZAL PARK, Manila — With the first tranche of fuel subsidies for public utility drivers and operators nearing completion, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said it is considering another round of financial aid for transport workers if fuel prices continue to rise in the coming weeks.
At a press conference held at the renovated Rizal Park Hotel in Manila, DSWD Secretary Rexlon “Rex” Gatchalian clarified that the ₱5,000 being distributed to transport groups under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program is only the first phase of the government’s effort to ease the burden of rising fuel costs on drivers.
“This is not going to be limited to one round; it’s going to be multiple rounds. In fact, that’s why I’m visiting to see the issues on the ground,” Gatchalian said.
He added that after Holy Week, there will be a special payout schedule for transport workers who were not included in the first round, “and then (the DSWD) will immediately move on to the second round.”
Amid the high cost of fuel triggered by disruptions in oil supplies due to the conflict in the Middle East, transport groups staged a two-day nationwide strike to highlight that the government’s cash subsidy is not enough to meet their needs.
One organization, Manibela, urged the government to provide ₱10,000 in monthly cash assistance instead of a one-time payout of ₱5,000.
Gatchalian, however, assured that the government under President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will continue to assist vulnerable sectors as long as the crisis persists. He added that on April 8, the DSWD will begin distributing financial aid outside Metro Manila, prioritizing high-density areas such as cities in Regions III (Central Luzon) and IV-A (Calabarzon).
He also noted that physical appearance is required when claiming financial assistance, as issues with correctly listing beneficiaries have arisen at many payout centers. Digitalizing the distribution process is being considered as a potential solution.
ia/xf
