Select operators of public utitility vehicles will receive a direct cash subsidy as assistance to continue daily limited operations under quarantine, authorities said Wednesday.
Through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, the Department of Transportation will give aid to operators from the country's different regions.
This is in accordance with the Bayanihan to Recover As One Act, where a P1.161 billion fund is allotted to help vulnerable transport stakeholders. Each beneficiary public utility vehicle operator will be given assistance of P6,500 for each unit.
Limited operations have resumed for PUVs, with fewer passengers being ferried to follow health guidelines and social distancing measures. Because of the reduced capacity, the day's earnings during the pandemic are not enough to cover the maintenance and running costs of operating a PUV.
MORE ON MASS TRANSPORT:
How Fast Is the MRT Compared to Usain Bolt, Japan's Bullet Train?
QC Trips, More Jeepney Routes to be Allowed, DOTr Says
One Seat Apart: The Updated 7 Commandments for Commuters
The following PUV operators with set routes will be the beneficiaries of the direct cash subsidy:
- Public Utility Bus (PUB)
- Point-to-Point Bus (P2P)
- Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ)
- Mini-Bus
- UV Express
- FilCab
The direct cash subsidy may be used for the following:
- Payment of debt
- Payment for fuel and for other operational and maintenance expenses
- For the purchase of equipment, supplies, or facilities needed to adhere to safety protocols (i.e. face mask, face shield, alcohol, etc.)
- Other needs of the beneficiary which aid in continuous daily operations
The direct cash subsidy will be distributed through the following channels:
- Funds placed in Landbank of the Philippines Pantawid Pasada Program Cash Cards
- Those without PPP cash cards may receive it in their existing LBP account
- Those without LBP accounts may receive it in their existing bank accounts via PESONet and INSTAPay
The LTFRB plans to start the distribution of direct cash subsidy to operators as early as this week. Those with questions and inquiries may call the LTFRB Hotline at 1342.
