Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation

BY ALJAVE M. MONTEROLA & ROCHELLE ANN L. UBAUB, DNSC Interns

SEVERAL public utility drivers who have yet to receive a text confirmation from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) expressed concern during the cash subsidy payout at Agdao Public Market on April 28.

DSWD XI director Rhuelo Aradanas reminded beneficiaries to wait for official text messages and follow their assigned schedules, stressing that the list came from LTFRB and not from the LGU or DSWD.

“Hintayin po muna ang text bago pumunta. Bawal ang proxy at dapat personal ang pagpunta. Ang listahan ay galing sa LTFRB, hindi sa LGU o DSWD,” he said.

Among those who went to the venue was Lito, a public utility jeepney (PUJ) operator, who was advised to return while his records were still being processed.

“Wala ko nakadawat text ug nag inquire lang ko. Pabalikon ko nila pagka May 5,” he said, adding that he was later assured he would still receive the cash subsidy.

While payout schedules were set for different types of public utility vehicle drivers, several still proceeded to the venue in hopes of being accommodated.

A tricycle driver also voiced frustration after making four returns to the payout site without receiving assistance due to the absence of a text confirmation.

“Kompleto akoang mga requirements, akoang mga franchise, unya kami noon wala nakadawat og text, unya kato noong naulahi na textan,” he said.

He added that despite completing requirements early, only six out of 46 drivers in their group reportedly received the cash subsidy.

LTFRB XI director Nonito A. Llanos III said concerns about missing names should be coordinated with DSWD, as they only submit the list after validation by partner agencies. He added that beneficiaries may still seek assistance after the payout.

“Maki-coordinate sila sa DSWD kay sila ang mo-validate. LTFRB mo-submit ra sa names. Pwede ra sila mo-adto after sa payout,” he said.

PUJ drivers who went to the venue without text confirmation were assisted in verifying their eligibility, while those not found in the list were referred to the LTFRB for further verification.

Meanwhile, Arman, a PUJ driver, expressed gratitude after receiving the subsidy, saying it provided much-needed support for his daily expenses.

“Dako ni og tabang sa amoa mga jeepney drivers, assistance usab pang-tubil ug pang-konsumo sa balay,” he said.

The payout is expected to cover around 6,000 public utility drivers, with distribution scheduled over several days to accommodate various transport sectors and ensure an orderly flow of beneficiaries.