Tricycle Drivers in Eastern Visayas Received P5,000 Cash Aid from DSWD

Posted on Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:44 am

TACLOBAN CITY — The rising cost of fuel has been putting pressure on the daily income of tricycle drivers in this area, but a P5,000 cash assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has brought much-needed relief to many of them.

“Dako na bulig ha amon an kada adlaw nga pamamasahero,” said Ben Tizon, a tricycle driver and resident of Barangay 59, expressing gratitude for the daily assistance in covering fuel and other expenses.

Tony Salduan from Barangay Tigbao shared a similar sentiment, acknowledging the challenges of high fuel prices and the substantial relief provided by the assistance.

“Makuri gud yana an biyahe, sobra ka mahal na han gasolina. Dako ini nga bulig ha amon.”

The DSWD distributed approximately P47.8 million in cash aid on April 8, 2026, benefiting tricycle drivers in seven cities in Eastern Visayas to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices.

According to DSWD Eastern Visayas Regional Director Grace Subong, the payouts were carried out in Tacloban City, Calbayog, and Catbalogan in Samar, Baybay and Ormoc in Leyte, and Maasin in Southern Leyte, in collaboration with local government units that identified the recipients.

Each eligible driver received P5,000 under the government program designed to alleviate the effects of global oil price increases.

Subong highlighted the improved organization of the distribution process in the provinces, following lessons learned from earlier challenges faced during distributions in Metro Manila.

(Photo courtesy: DSWD Eastern Visayas)