The Department of Transportation (DOTr) through the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will give direct cash subsidy assistance to qualified Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) stakeholders in response to the ongoing pandemic in the country.

Due to the coronavirus, a few have PUV operator have managed to resume work, but have reduced the capacity for passengers to follow health protocols. In line with this, many operators were afflicted and their income is insufficient to cover the maintenance of their utilities.

Thus, the government has allocated P1.161 billion to fund the PUV operators from the country’s different regions. This is following the Republic Act 11494 or known as Bayanihan to Recover As One Act.

The beneficiaries of the subsidy are the Public Utility Buses (PUB), Point-to-Point Buses (P2P), Public Utility Jeepneys (PUJ), Mini-Buses, UV Express, and FilCab. Each operator shall receive PHP 6,500 for each unit.

The direct cash subsidy may be used for payment of a debt, maintenance expenses (i.e. fuel and repairs), purchase of equipment, supplies, or facilities needed to adhere to safety protocols (i.e. face mask, face shield, alcohol, etc.), and other needs of the beneficiary which aid in continuous daily operations of their vehicles.

The funds will be distributed through Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) Pantawid Pasada Program Cash Cards. Operators without PPP cash cards may receive it in their existing LBP account, others via PESONet and INSTAPay.

The LTFRB plans to start the distribution earlier this week. Those who have questions and inquiries may call the LTFRB Hotline at 1342.

Photo Credit: DOTr