• THERESA MAE DULMAN
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya announced that Transport Network Vehicle Service (TNVS) drivers across the Negros Island Region (NIR) are scheduled to receive a P5,000 fuel subsidy this coming Thursday, May 28.
The financial aid will be distributed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program.
Gasataya disclosed that following a meeting with DSWD Regional Director Arwin Razo, around 3,500 TNVS drivers across the entire island region are currently on the list.
While the agency is finalizing the details, the city government expects to receive the final release schedule no later than Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Gasataya noted that securing the subsidy for taxi drivers presents a distinct challenge.
According to the mayor, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian committed to releasing the funds as soon as the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Central Office submits its official registry.
However, the central office’s list primarily contains taxi operators, whereas the city government previously submitted a list composed of drivers.
Gasataya said he has reached out to LTFRB NIR Regional Director Gerry Llena regarding the matter, hoping the DSWD will consider giving the assistance directly to the taxi drivers.*
