Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday assured it is assessing the distribution of cash relief assistance (CRA) to beneficiary drivers in Metro Manila to address issues that need to be improved. DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said a careful study of payout sites and the capacity to accommodate thousands will form part of the assessment following the death of a beneficiary in Quezon City on April 18 during the cash distribution to motorcycle taxi and delivery riders in Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dumlao stated that since there are still motorcycle taxi and delivery riders from Metro Manila who have not received cash aid yet, the DSWD has decided to organize an additional payout schedule within the week. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has already visited the family of the deceased, offering assistance for hospital expenses, funeral and burial arrangements, transportation for family members, and the continuing education of the deceased's daughter.

Dumlao emphasized that the DSWD is aware of the issues in the implementation of special payouts, and they have coordinated with local government units and transport group officials to address these concerns. She assured that all issues related to the process and payout sites are being scrutinized to prevent recurrence during future payouts.

The DSWD will make announcements once plans are finalized to ensure that those who did not meet the cut-offs and have not claimed their cash relief assistance will not miss out. The department is currently studying the best way to address the issues encountered during the special payout.

The CRA is part of the Marcos administration's initiatives aimed at mitigating the impact of the energy emergency resulting from the crisis in the Middle East.