More than 2,100 tricycle drivers in Lucena City received much-needed financial assistance from the national government as fuel prices continue to rise across the country.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed P5,000 each to qualified beneficiaries at the New Evacuation Center in Barangay Mayao Crossing, according to the citys Public Information Office (PIO).
Relief for Public Transport Workers
The financial aid is part of the DSWDs Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, designed to help workers affected by the ongoing fuel price hikes.
Among the beneficiaries was Greg Loyola, 55, a tricycle driver who rents his vehicle from an operator. He expressed gratitude for the assistance, saying it would help cover both his gasoline expenses and his familys basic needs.
This is a big help for a poor driver like me. With this money, I will save P3,000 for gasoline. The remaining P2,000 will be spent on other basic needs of the family, Loyola said.
He also noted that many of his passengers have been understanding of the crisis and even voluntarily pay extra fares to support drivers.
More Aid Coming
The DSWD aims to extend assistance to about 8,022 tricycle operators and drivers in Lucena City, with payouts scheduled across multiple days. The national government effort complements the city governments own initiative last month, which distributed P1,000 fuel coupons to 6,000 tricycle drivers, while more than 200 jeepney drivers received P6,000 each in fuel assistance.
Mayor Urges Resilience
Mayor Mark Alcala acknowledged that while the aid may seem modest, it can help ease the burden on residents amid the fuel crisis. He urged drivers to remain resilient, comply with authorized fare rates, and treat passengers with respect.
Passengers are your source of livelihood. Respect them, the mayor said.
The fuel crisis has hit public transport workers hard across the Philippines, and Lucena Citys local and national government efforts reflect a joint commitment to support one of the most vulnerable sectors in the community.
For more community news and updates from Lucena City, visit phshirt.com.