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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No Comelec certification required for PUV drivers' cash aid — DSWD

No Comelec certification required for PUV drivers' cash aid — DSWD

Published Apr 19, 2026 10:58 am
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified that beneficiaries of its cash relief assistance for public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers are not required to secure any certification from the Commission on Elections (Comelec), amid circulating claims linking such a requirement to the release of aid.
The cash relief assistance is part of the government’s effort to help transport workers cope with the impact of rising fuel prices.
“We remind the public that the DSWD cash relief assistance is for qualified public utility vehicle drivers,” DSWD Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Irene Dumlao said on April 18.
“We would also like to emphasize that we do not require any certification from Comelec or similar documents before receiving any of our programs and services,” she said.
She added that the DSWD intentionally keeps the process simple to avoid burdening drivers, noting that the only requirement for the cash relief assistance is a valid driver’s license.
“They are already facing difficulties in their livelihood, and we are here to help ease their situation, even in a small way,” she said.
The DSWD said beneficiaries of the cash relief assistance are identified through official lists submitted by partner agencies, including local government units for tricycle and jeepney drivers, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for transport network vehicle service (TNVS) drivers, and the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) for motorcycle taxi drivers and delivery riders.
Lists for TNVS drivers are endorsed by transport network companies to the LTFRB, while motorcycle taxi and delivery rider beneficiaries are coordinated through private delivery service providers and submitted to the DICT.
The DSWD also noted that while the cash relief assistance is focused on PUV drivers, other sectors affected by rising fuel prices may still seek support under the broader Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
Dumlao encouraged the public to verify information through official DSWD channels, including its website and verified social media accounts, to avoid misinformation regarding government assistance programs.

Related Tags

DSWD COMELEC AICS CASH ASSISTANCE OIL CRISIS PUV DRIVERS
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