The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has acknowledged the potential impact of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) on jeepney drivers’ livelihoods. To address this concern, the DSWD is offering various programs and services that drivers can avail themselves of during this transitional period.
One such program is the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), which can provide urgent and temporary assistance to individuals and families facing crisis situations. Jeepney drivers, who may find themselves in dire circumstances due to the implementation of the modernization program, can be considered eligible for AICS support. Social workers will assess their needs and provide assistance in the form of food and cash aid, among other forms of aid.
While the AICS program offers immediate relief, it is important to note that it is a one-time assistance. Recognizing the long-term impact of job loss, DSWD Program Management Bureau (PMB) Director Miramel Laxa emphasizes the significance of providing subsidies or livelihood aid to affected drivers. She encourages government agencies to consider offering livelihood programs and grants to help jeepney drivers establish alternative sources of income.
Director Laxa further underscores the importance of long-term assistance and programs to support individuals in dealing with the possibility of job loss. As the government’s principal social protection agency, the DSWD is committed to assisting vulnerable sectors, particularly drivers, in improving their well-being throughout this crisis. They recognize the need to provide ongoing support and resources to help drivers cope with the changes brought about by the PUVMP.
The implementation of the PUVMP, starting in January 2024, aims to replace outdated PUVs, including jeepneys, with modern and more expensive units. While this modernization is necessary for improving public transportation, it also presents challenges for jeepney drivers who rely on their vehicles for their livelihoods. The DSWD acknowledges these challenges and is proactively working to provide support and assistance to those affected.
It is crucial to ensure that jeepney drivers have access to resources and opportunities that can help them transition into new livelihoods. By offering livelihood programs, grants, and ongoing support, the government can help mitigate the impact of the PUVMP on drivers and their families. The DSWD’s commitment to assisting vulnerable sectors demonstrates their dedication to social welfare and their understanding of the importance of providing comprehensive support during times of change.
In conclusion, the DSWD recognizes the potential hardships that jeepney drivers may face due to the implementation of the PUVMP. Through their various assistance programs and services, such as the AICS and livelihood aid, they aim to provide temporary relief and long-term support to affected drivers. By working together with other government agencies, they strive to ensure that jeepney drivers have the resources they need to adapt to the changes brought about by the modernization program.
Source: The Manila Times
