Manila: A total of 977,036 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers across the country have received PHP5,000 in cash relief assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) as of Sunday. The beneficiaries include tricycle drivers, jeepney drivers, Transport Network Vehicle Services (TNVS) drivers, service delivery drivers, and motorcycle (MC) taxi drivers.

According to Philippines News Agency, in an interview on Monday, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured the public that the agency has sufficient funds under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program to sustain the distribution of cash relief assistance. Gatchalian emphasized that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. prioritizes funding for vulnerable groups, and the DSWD has a PHP60-billion fund for AICS, ensuring ample resources for the initiative.

The DSWD chief also indicated that the agency is preparing for a potential second round of payouts, this time utilizing digital platforms to enhance efficiency and streamline the distribution process to PUV drivers. "We have started the process. In fact, GCash and Maya have already submitted proposals - we are ready for a possible second round. We now have a high confidence level on the list of beneficiaries," Gatchalian stated.

In a separate interview, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao highlighted the agency's target to complete the first round of assistance before the end of April. "We will complete it before the end of the month, not just in the NCR, but also in cities and municipalities outside NCR," she mentioned. Dumlao also noted the DSWD's coordination with the Department of Health and partner local government units to ensure the presence of medical teams at each payout site, considering the summer heat.