In support to jeepney drivers who were affected by the limited movement of people in this time of pandemic, the Ilocos Norte government through its Sangguniang Panlalawigan, will be setting aside a certain budget to cover their medical insurance as well as gas allowance to ease their financial difficulty.

This was assured by Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc on Friday following his meeting with the Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association (JODA) at the Laoag Centennial Arena.

The Metro Ilocos Norte Council (MINC) under the Ilocos Norte government will also be distributing MINC Cards for them to avail of discounted medicines in participating drug stores including a gift certificate.

During the meeting, Manotoc expressed gratitude to the drivers and operators of jeepneys who are plying at least 25 routes in the entire province.

“Our drivers are one of the most affected during the pandemic and I thank you all for your cooperation as we try to recover and live under the new normal,” he said.

Previously, around 1,000 jeepney drivers in the province were given fuel subsidy and cash-for-work programs courtesy of the provincial government.

The program was implemented by allowing the jeepney drivers to provide free rides to frontline workers in various parts of the province with a daily wage of PHP340 and gas subsidy.

Since the start of the free ride program, over 10,000 front-liners and 317 patients have so far availed of the program. (PNA)