Gov’t launches direct cash subsidy for PUV operators

MANILA, Philippines — The government has officially rolled out its direct cash subsidy program for operators of public utilities vehicles (PUVs) that would provide them P6,500 per unit, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque announced on Tuesday.

The funds allocated for the program are part of the budget under Republic Act No. 11494, or the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act, which allots P1.16 billion for the Department of Transportation to help “critically impacted road-based stakeholders.”

“Inilunsad ng DOTr at LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board) ang direct cash subsidy program para sa PUV operators kahapon. Kasama sa makakatanggap ng ayuda ay ang mga public utility buses, point-to-point bus, public utility jeepneys, mini bus, UV express at FilCab,” Roque said in a press briefing.

(The DOTr and LTFRB launched the direct cash subsidy program for PUV operators yesterday. Among the beneficiaries are operators of public utility buses, point-to-point bus, public utility jeepneys, mini bus, UV express, and FilCab.)

“Magkano po itong cash assistance? Ito ay one-time P6,500 per unit. Target ng LTFRB na maipamahagi ito ngayong linggong ito,” he added.

(How much is the cash assistance? This is a one-time P6,500 per unit. The LTFRB targets to distribute the amount this week.)

The DOTr earlier said that the P6,500 direct cash subsidy will be given to the beneficiaries either through their Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) Pantawid Pasada Program Cash Cards, existing LBP accounts or other bank accounts through PesoNet and Instapay.

JE