MALAYBALAY CITY — More than 700 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Bukidnon received P5,000 each in fuel aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS)
program to help them cope with rising fuel costs.

A total of 769 drivers from Cabanglasan, Impasugong, Lantapan, Sumilao, and Malaybalay
received the cash aid on May 18 at the Kaamulan Folk Arts Theater in Malaybalay City.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Land Transportation Franchising
and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and Department of Transportation (DOTr) jointly implemented
the assistance to help PUJ drivers manage rising operating costs and continue serving
commuters.
Transport workers said the subsidy would help ease financial burdens and support their families’
daily needs.
“We are deeply grateful to President Bongbong Marcos for this fuel subsidy. For us PUJ drivers,
this is not just financial assistance. It helps us stay afloat and sustain our livelihood amid these
difficult times,” PUJ driver Jordillo Dacion said.
LTFRB Focal Person Rohaniya Disomangcop said the government continues to extend support
to transport workers affected by rising living costs.
She said the subsidy provides financial relief to drivers who continue operations despite
increasing transport expenses.
“I thank PBBM for this assistance. It does not just buy fuel; it also helps provide food and
support my children’s needs. This is truly an answered prayer,” PUJ driver Conrado Epan said.
DSWD-10 Social Welfare and Development Officer Richelle Gay Magatao said the subsidy
helps PUJ drivers sustain daily operations without heavily reducing their earnings.
She said the assistance also helps ensure uninterrupted public transportation services for
commuters.
“AICS program implementation reflects ongoing government efforts to support transport
workers and sustain reliable public transportation services nationwide,” Magatao said.
(JMC/PIA-10/Bukidnon)