Iloilo: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has commenced the distribution of PHP5,000 cash relief assistance to public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Western Visayas. This financial support aims to alleviate the burden faced by drivers due to escalating fuel prices.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD Field Office-6 is actively distributing cash aid to jeepney drivers, with the list of beneficiaries provided by the national office of the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. This list was subsequently processed and sent to the regional office for distribution. The cash relief assistance aims to support 6,242 qualified PUJ drivers facing challenges due to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East that have contributed to rising fuel costs.

The initial disbursement took place on Monday, targeting drivers from the first district of Iloilo, including the towns of Guimbal, Igbaras, Miagao, Oton, San Joaquin, Tigbauan, and Tubungan. It also covered selected towns in the third and fourth districts, such as Mina, Pototan, Anilao, Banate, Barotac Nuevo, Passi City, Dingle, Duenas, Dumangas, and San Enrique, along with the municipalities of Buenavista, Jordan, Nueva Valencia, San Lorenzo, and Sibunag. The payout is set to continue on Tuesday in Aklan and Capiz.

Roger Erta, a PUJ driver from Igbaras, expressed appreciation for the government's assistance, acknowledging its significant impact on their livelihood amidst rising fuel costs. Similarly, Jay Lebuna, a driver from Miagao, noted the timeliness of the relief, as it enables him to meet household needs during this period of financial strain.