By CESAR JOLITO III

A total of 591 transport network vehicle service (TNVS) and service delivery drivers in Negros Oriental and Siquijor have each received P5,000 in cash assistance under the government’s Cash Relief Assistance (CRA) program, as part of efforts to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices and operational costs.

The payout, amounting to P2,955,000 in total assistance, was facilitated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Negros Island Region, targeting workers in the transport and delivery sector who have been significantly affected by ongoing economic pressures.

According to program implementers, beneficiaries were identified through official rosters submitted by TNVS and delivery companies.

These lists were validated and endorsed through coordination with the Department of Information and Communications Technology and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board before final approval and release.

Officials said strict verification procedures were enforced to ensure that only qualified workers received assistance, with the CRA designed as a one-time grant to help cover daily expenses and stabilize household budgets amid increasing transport-related costs.

The distribution was conducted in coordination with local government units, partner agencies and participating companies, with DSWD field personnel deployed onsite to manage payouts and address beneficiary concerns.

The said assistance forms part of a broader social protection initiative recognizing the essential role of transport and delivery workers in maintaining mobility and ensuring the continuous flow of goods and services across communities./CCJ, WDJ