By Ellalyn De Vera-Ruiz
Around 8,800 public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers so far have received cash assistance from the government's Social Amelioration Program under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act.
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said the total number of PUV driver-beneficiaries reached 8,879 individuals on Monday, since the aid distribution began last April 7.
These include drivers of jeepney, taxi, bus, transportation network vehicle service or TNVS, and motorcycle taxi, among others.
"The distribution of assistance to PUV drivers still continues through cash assistance from the social amelioration program conducted by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Transportation, LTFRB, and Landbank of the Philippines (LBP)," LTFRB said in a statement.
"In coordination with LBP, aid is given to PUV drivers who are no longer able to ply their route due to the implementation of enhanced community quarantine brought about by the coronavirus pandemic," it added.
The LTFRB said the cash assistance distribution for PUV drivers will continue on Tuesday. Drivers who will be claiming their cash grants may check the website of the LTFRB if they are included in the list.