MANILA, Philippines — Thousands of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers who were affected by the Luzon-wide transportation ban have started receiving cash assistance from the government, according to the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
The state-run Land Bank of the Philippines on Tuesday released P33.4 million to help drivers cope with the suspension of public transportation.
LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra III said an initial 4,175 Transport Network Vehicles Service drivers received P8,000 each from 58 Landbank branches in Metro Manila.
Delgra said PUV drivers would also get cash aid.
He said at least 8,800 PUV drivers have been vetted and crossmatched with the Department of Social Welfare and Development to avoid double listing as the LTFRB’s matrix and that of the DSWD were different.