Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso expressed gratitude to the national government as ₱5,000 cash assistance was distributed to tricycle drivers in Metro Manila, aimed at easing the impact of soaring fuel prices triggered by tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking at the ASAC Covered Court in Sta. Mesa, Manila, one of several payout sites in the National Capital Region, Domagoso thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., saying the aid would provide immediate relief to drivers struggling with the sharp increase in oil prices.
“Nagpapasalamat tayo kay Presidente. Napakalaking bagay nito para sa ating mga driver, maibsan ang hinaharap nilang suliranin dahil sa presyo ng gas,” the mayor said.
Domagoso also conveyed appreciation on behalf of Manila residents and the transport sector, noting that the city is thankful for the national government’s support during a period of economic strain.
The assistance follows the announcement by Marcos Jr. on Monday, March 16, of government measures aimed at cushioning the effects of global oil price increases linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Under the program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will distribute P5,000 in cash assistance to around 139,000 tricycle drivers across 17 local government units in Metro Manila beginning March 17.
The President said similar support will also be extended to tricycle drivers outside the National Capital Region, while jeepney drivers and transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers are expected to receive the same amount in the coming days.
Aside from the cash assistance, the national government is also preparing fuel subsidies for transport workers and additional aid for farmers and fisherfolk affected by rising oil prices. (Diann Calucin)
