Jeepney drivers may avail of one-time cash aid in modernization transition – DSWD

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, December 29) — Jeepney drivers who may be affected by the public utility vehicle (PUV) modernization may avail of a cash aid under a Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) program, an official said Friday.

In a news release, DSWD Program Management Bureau Director Miramel Laxa said those affected by the modernization scheme could be categorized as «in crisis,» which will allow them to avail of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).

«Availing of AICS can help them meet their basic needs through different forms of assistance such as food, and cash aid, among others,» Laxa said.

However, the agency said AICS is just a one-time assistance. It is among programs that serve as «a stop-gap measure by providing immediate and temporary aid to individuals and families who are undergoing crisis based on the assessment of social workers,» it added.

«It would be better to also consider them for livelihood programs and grants offered by different government agencies,» Laxa said.

She added that there is a need to provide sustainable services and programs to «help them cope with the possible loss of their jobs.»

The government has set a Dec. 31 deadline for PUV operators to consolidate, or join cooperatives or corporations. Franchise consolidation is a key component of the modernization plan.

Unconsolidated operators would have their permits revoked by Jan. 1, 2024, according to a Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) memorandum circular dated Dec. 14. ml

In a circular publicized Thursday, the LTFRB also set conditions allowing unconsolidated operators to ply roads until end-January 2024. This was not a deadline extension and those who cannot comply with the consolidation will be issued with show cause orders.

While the government provides a subsidy of ₱200,000, Mar Valbuena of transport group Manibela told CNN Philippines' The Source this is still not enough to cover the expenses of a modern unit. From around ₱1.2 million in 2018, a modern jeepney now costs at least ₱2.6 million, he noted.

WATCH: Jeepney operators, drivers hope for enough subsidy to buy modern units

The government had said