DSWD to help jeepney drivers affected by PUVMP

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development is ready to provide assistance to jeepney operators and drivers affected by the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), a DSWD official said yesterday.

“So far we have not received any information, but of course, if someone approaches us and requests for assistance, it will be responded to immediately by the DSWD,” spokesperson Irene Dumlao said.

However, Dumlao clarified that the assistance is “subject to the assessment of DSWD social workers… so that we can ascertain the appropriate help or interventions that should be given to them.”

She said the DSWD may provide food or cash assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation and livelihood programs under the Sustainable Livelihood Program, provided the jeepney drivers meet the criteria under the two programs.

The PUVMP seeks to replace old PUVs, including jeepneys, with modern units.

Meanwhile, Sen. Grace Poe yesterday called on the government to link the PUVMP to the state-run Land Bank of the Philippines and the Development Bank of the Philippines to assist the drivers in settling costs.

Poe, the chairperson of the Senate committee on public services, said if the government cannot increase the subsidy for the drivers, it should impose the smallest interest possible on loans from these banks.

Poe urged the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to issue an order to buy the modern units from local manufacturers and increase the subsidy for drivers.

The senator said the DOTr should have thought about how drivers would earn if they give up their jeepneys.