Photo: San Marcelino Public Information Office
SAN MARCELINO, Zambales — More than 1,000 tricycle drivers in this town will receive ₱5,000 each in cash relief assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), as part of government efforts to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices.
Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) Head Sahra Soria said the assistance will be given to qualified drivers holding valid 2026 permits.
The program follows the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to provide targeted support to sectors heavily affected by fuel price increases, including public transport workers.
In a related development, Mayor Elvis Ragadio Soria met with Tricycle Operators and Drivers Associations (TODA) leaders on March 26 to announce additional support from the local government. The municipality will distribute fuel coupons to eligible drivers to help ease their operating expenses.
The mayor also urged drivers to hold off on fare hikes, noting that commuters are equally burdened by the continued rise in oil prices.
Local officials said further assistance programs are being considered as part of ongoing efforts to support transport workers and other vulnerable sectors in the community. (San Marcelino Public Information Office)