• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Bacolod City government submitted its list of beneficiaries for the national government’s fuel assistance program to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) over the weekend.
Mayor Greg Gasataya announced that approximately 7,000 drivers were included in the submission.
The list covers a wide range of public transport sectors, including traditional and modernized jeepney drivers, taxi drivers, and Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) operators.
Gasataya clarified that the list is inclusive of both consolidated and unconsolidated PUV drivers, ensuring that those who participated in recent transport strikes or rallies are still eligible for the subsidy.
In addition to the LTFRB submission, the mayor confirmed that the LGU has forwarded a separate list of 3,000 tricycle drivers to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
These drivers have been recommended to receive a P5,000 fuel assistance grant to help mitigate rising operational costs.
Gasataya also addressed reports of non-drivers attempting to be included in the program, stating that the DSWD is collating complaints and will take appropriate measures against those who falsify certifications.
He stressed that the city is prioritizing a well-organized database to ensure that the distribution of assistance in Bacolod remains orderly and avoids the complications encountered in other regions.
The city government is currently waiting for the final recommendations from the LTFRB and DSWD before proceeding with the special payout.*
