Manila: A total of 2,798 qualified tricycle drivers in this city received PHP1,000 fuel subsidy each from the local government on Thursday, with beneficiaries saying the assistance would help ease the impact of rising fuel prices on their livelihood and support their families' daily needs. The city government disbursed PHP2.8 million in locally funded assistance during the payout at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR).

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Hisham Ismail stated that the subsidy was intended to provide relief to tricycle drivers, who have been among those most affected by rising fuel costs. Ismail mentioned that the subsidy is currently a one-time assistance under the approved ordinance, although the city government may consider another round if fuel prices remain high and funds are available.

City Social Welfare and Development Office chief Cecilia Arcilla noted that the subsidy augments previous assistance extended by the national government to tricycle drivers and was anchored on the continuing increase in fuel prices. Arcilla added that the payout, supervised by the City Treasurer's Office, proceeded smoothly as beneficiaries were only required to present minimal documentary requirements.

Beneficiaries expressed that the subsidy would help ease the burden of rising fuel prices by supplementing their fuel expenses and supporting their households. Elmer Acosta, 40, of Barangay Oro Site, and Arnold Anza, 60, of Barangay Pawa, shared that the assistance would help cover fuel costs while allowing them to buy food and other household necessities. They emphasized that the subsidy would provide much-needed relief as fuel prices continue to increase.

Meanwhile, Nicolas Agravante, 47, a person with disability and tricycle driver from Barangay Pe±aranda Street, highlighted that the assistance would help him meet both his livelihood and household needs. Agravante mentioned that the subsidy would help cover daily expenses, food, and fuel.

Dennis Lelis, 56, of Barangay 38, Gogon, stated that the assistance would enable him to prioritize his health without reducing the income he earns from driving. Lelis explained that he would buy medicine because of his health condition and noted that the assistance means he won't have to spend part of his earnings from driving on medication, allowing him to also use it to augment his fuel expenses.