Public utility vehicle drivers line up on the first day of cash relief assistance payouts at Agdao Public Market in Davao City on April 28, 2026. A total of 2,469 public utility vehicle drivers received more than PHP12.3 million during the scheduled distribution from April 28 to 30. (PNA photo by Robinson Niñal Jr.)
DAVAO CITY – A total of 2,469 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers received more than PHP12.3 million in cash relief assistance during the scheduled distribution from April 28 to 30, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Davao Region (DSWD-11) reported Friday.
Data provided to the Philippine News Agency indicated that 809 drivers claimed their aid on April 28, followed by 836 on April 29, and 824 on April 30.
The payout will resume on May 5 to 7.
The agency targets 6,329 PUV drivers, including jeepney, taxi, bus, transport network vehicle services (TNVS), and service delivery drivers for the assistance.
Records indicate that 531 identified beneficiaries have yet to claim their assistance, representing a remaining balance of PHP2.6 million.
Each qualified driver is entitled to PHP5,000 under the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, a national initiative that cushions vulnerable transport workers against fuel price hikes triggered by conflicts in the Middle East.
“To qualify for the assistance, drivers must hold a valid permit and a professional driver’s license, which must be presented as an original copy along with a photocopy bearing three specimen signatures during the payout,” the DSWD-11 said in a statement.
The cash relief under AICS helps PUV drivers meet their families’ basic needs amid rising operational costs. (PNA)