Nearly 4,000 MC taxi riders get P5K aid in Manila payout
The distribution of P5,000 cash relief assistance to motorcycle (MC) taxi riders is currently underway today, March 28, at the Kartilya ng Katipunan near Manila City Hall.
The initiative aims to provide immediate financial support to riders grappling with rising fuel prices and increasing daily operating costs, which have significantly affected their earnings in recent weeks.
Thousands of beneficiaries began lining up early in the day to secure their slots, forming long queues at the venue as the payout commenced.
Many riders said the assistance would help them cover fuel expenses and basic needs amid the continuing surge in oil prices.
“Kahit papaano, makakadagdag ito sa panggastos namin sa pamilya (At least this will add to what we can spend for our family),” one rider said, noting that a large portion of their daily income now goes directly to fuel.
The cash aid distribution forms part of the government’s broader efforts to cushion the impact of high fuel prices on the transport sector, particularly those in informal and gig-based work such as motorcycle taxi services.
The payout is being carried out in coordination with the Manila Department of Social Welfare and Development and the Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau, with funds provided by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) under its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, in partnership with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
Authorities said the distribution will continue until 5 p.m. and is set to resume the following day, Sunday, March 29, at the same venue from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Beneficiaries are advised to bring both the original and a photocopy of their professional driver’s license and to follow the assigned schedule to avoid overcrowding and delays in processing.
Riders are also encouraged not to bring their vehicles to the venue.
Authorities have yet to announce whether additional rounds of assistance will be provided, but officials said similar interventions are being considered to further support affected drivers and operators.