Another batch of public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers in Ilocos Norte was given financial aid by the local government on Tuesday to help cushion the effects of the fuel price hikes on their livelihood.

A total of 1,200 jeepney and tricycle drivers in San Nicolas town received their cash assistance worth PHP4,000 each.

The second round of distribution, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc said, was part of the provincial government’s response to the financial crisis brought about by the rising fuel price.

“With the rising prices of fuel, you are the most affected. We will make sure that the public transport sector will get the needed support,” he said.

The assistance program, which was started in October last year, initially entitled each beneficiary of the Pantawid Pasada Program to a fuel voucher worth PHP1,000, accident insurance, and PHP 3,000 cash assistance.

This time, however, the Ilocos Norte government is giving out PHP4,000 worth of fuel subsidies to all registered public utility drivers and operators under the Metro Ilocos Norte Council (MINC).

During the distribution, MINC project head, Althea Nicolette Pilar said the province has allocated almost PHP10 million for the program.

As of this posting, the MINC said almost all towns and cities in Ilocos Norte have been reached.

“This is a big help to us during this time of crisis. Thank you very much to our government officials and leaders for understanding our plight,” said Ronel Abad, one of the trike driver beneficiaries in San Nicolas. (PNA)