The local government here is ready to release next week the PHP1,500 fuel subsidy coupons for 1,600 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers and operators plying Iloilo City routes.

Joy Gorzal, spokesperson for Mayor Raisa Treñas, said the target beneficiaries were validated with the master list from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board in Western Visayas.

“On April 9, it’s a holiday, so there will be fewer commuters. There is a venue and allotted time for them to claim their coupons,” she said in a video message to the media on Tuesday.

They can redeem their subsidy from select gasoline stations on April 11 and 12 from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m.

To claim their coupons, drivers need to bring their original driver’s license. For redemption at gasoline stations, they should bring their original driver’s license and one photocopy with three original specimen signatures.

Gorzal said the provision of assistance is one driver per unit. A total of 1,782 jeepney units are plying various routes in Iloilo City.

Last week, the city government completed the release of PHP500 fuel subsidy for 1,718 tricycle operators and drivers association members.

Gorzal also announced that on April 8, the Department of Social Welfare and Development will roll out the PHP5,000 cash relief assistance for 1,983 tricycle drivers and operators with a valid franchise issued by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) and Motorized Tricycle Operator’s Permit from the Business Permit and Licensing Division.

To claim, they need to bring their original professional driver’s license with two photocopies bearing their three original specimen signatures.

They have to personally claim the cash relief assistance. (PNA)