By CESAR JOLITO III
The Samahan ng mga Taxi Drivers sa Bacolod (SMTDB) and Taxi Operations Negros Occidental Association (TONO), representing around 520 active members, expressed deep frustration and disappointment over being left out of government fuel subsidy programs.
SMTDB and TONO, in a statement dated April 10, said the disparity is unfair and painful, stating that, like other transport workers, taxi drivers work daily to provide for their families, earning only what they make from each trip.
They claim that recent aid released by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the local government was given exclusively to tricycle operators and drivers, completely excluding legitimate taxi drivers.
The groups said for decades, taxi operators and drivers have been fully compliant, holding valid franchises, official receipts, city stickers, and business permits.
The groups emphasized that they strictly follow safety and legal standards required by authorities.
They stressed that they also face high operating costs, especially rising fuel prices, which eat heavily into their daily income.
Unlike other sectors, they said they receive no regular assistance, leaving them to struggle on their own.
The leaders recalled that back in 2017, the LTFRB launched a program called the “Drivers Academy” held in Tangub Gym and Barangay Hall.
They spent whole days attending seminars on traffic laws and regulations, under the impression that this was part of preparing them for future benefits and support.
They were told they would be prioritized because they hold proper certificates from the LTFRB.
Yet, they feel betrayed, saying authorities now prioritize Transport Network Vehicle Service members, including those described as “ghost riders” or unregistered drivers, while legitimate, law-abiding taxi drivers are ignored.
They called on DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., and local officials to look closely at their situation.
They noted that Bacolod’s transport landscape is different from Metro Manila or Cebu City, and their needs deserve equal attention.
The group expressed gratitude to the local government for the fuel aid previously provided, and also for their continued support during difficult times.
However, they stressed that Resolution No. 365, while appreciated, lacks clear guidelines on how it will be carried out. They urged officials to consult taxi operators and hold public hearings, pushing for a special fuel discount program specifically for Bacolod’s taxi drivers.
They warned that if their concerns remain unaddressed, they are ready to hold a caravan or rally to make their voices heard.
“We ask for compassion. We are just trying to earn an honest living here in Bacolod,” they said./CJ, WDJ