The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is extending PHP9.56 million in cash relief assistance (CRA) to public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers across Eastern Visayas this week.

So far, 1,913 PUJ drivers in the region have received PHP5,000 in cash aid during simultaneous distribution at various DSWD Action Centers.

The program aims to provide immediate financial support to drivers affected by the continuing rise in transportation-related expenses and other livelihood challenges.

DSWD Eastern Visayas Regional Director Grace Subong and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Regional Director Gualberto N. Gualberto led the distribution for the Tacloban leg on May 11.

“We want to make our transport workers feel that they remain among the government’s priorities. Our collaboration with LTFRB highlights the strong coordination between the two agencies in delivering prompt assistance and services to beneficiaries,” Subong said in a statement Wednesday.

A simultaneous payout was conducted at nine DSWD Action Centers across Eastern Visayas, including Tacloban City, Ormoc City, Baybay City, and Villaba in Leyte.

Assistance was also distributed in Maasin City, Southern Leyte; the cities of Calbayog and Catbalogan, Samar; Borongan City, Eastern Samar; and Catarman town, Northern Samar.

Payout activities are also ongoing in the provinces of Biliran and Southern Leyte.

By simultaneously distributing financial assistance, the government reaffirmed its commitment to providing timely and compassionate support to the transportation sector across the region.

The DSWD has been distributing CRA to transport-sector workers, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to use all available resources to help the sector cushion the effects of soaring oil prices. (PNA)