The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Tuesday distributed cash assistance to a group of motorcycle taxi riders in response to the impending fuel price increase. The aid, amounting to P1,000 per beneficiary, was given to qualified drivers under the government's fuel subsidy program.
In a ceremony held in Quezon City, Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista led the distribution of the cash aid to 100 motorcycle taxi riders from various transport network companies. The beneficiaries were selected based on their compliance with government regulations.
"We understand that the upcoming fuel price hike will have a significant impact on our motorcycle taxi riders, who rely heavily on their income to support their families," Bautista said. "This cash assistance is part of the government's efforts to help them cope with the rising cost of fuel."
The fuel subsidy program, initially launched for public utility vehicles, has been expanded to include motorcycle taxis following the approval of a joint memorandum circular. The government allocated a total of P5 billion for the program, with funds sourced from the unexpended balance of the Motor Vehicle User's Charge.
Motorcycle taxi riders welcomed the assistance, saying it would provide temporary relief from the increasing operational costs. "This will help us cover our fuel expenses for a few days," said Ronald, a motorcycle taxi rider who received the aid.
The DOTr plans to roll out the cash aid to more motorcycle taxi riders in the coming weeks, with the next distribution scheduled in other parts of Metro Manila. The agency urged qualified beneficiaries to ensure their documents are in order to expedite the process.
The fuel price hike, expected to take effect next week, will see an increase of up to P1.50 per liter for gasoline and P2.00 per liter for diesel.