Submit list of fuel subsidy beneficiaries, LGUs told

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered local government units (LGUs) to submit the list of tricycle drivers who are eligible for the next round of fuel subsidies.

The DILG said city and municipal mayors should submit the validated list of qualified beneficiaries for the Pantawid Pasada program not later than April 26.

“Tricycle drivers who have been burdened by oil price hikes need this assistance,” DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said in a statement.

The DILG issued Memorandum Circular 2022-046, instructing LGUs to submit the list of tricycle drivers and operators, complete with their addresses, electronic wallet accounts and other personal details.

The list should be certified by the Tricycle Franchising Board and the head of the local Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association.

“It must be certified by the city or municipal mayors and vice mayors. This is to ensure that the list we will forward to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) is legitimate,” Año said.

He said the list would be used in the distribution of fuel subsidy to qualified beneficiaries and make sure that the cash assistance would be utilized for fuel purchases only.

LGUs were also ordered to set up a Pantawid Pasada Assistance and Complaint Desk or hotline to address the complaints of drivers.

Año said the fuel subsidy would be a big help for drivers whose meager income was cut further by oil price increases.

Under the program, qualified public utility vehicle drivers are entitled to receive fuel subsidy of up to P6,500.

The program covers drivers of jeepneys, UV Express, mini buses, buses, shuttle services, taxis, tricycles and ride-hailing services.

The program is being implemented by the DOTr and LTFRB.