Davao City Tricycle Drivers Receive ₱5,000 Fuel Subsidy to Combat Rising Costs
On Wednesday morning, April 8, 2026, a tricycle driver included in the official masterlist received a ₱5,000 fuel subsidy during a payout event at Agdao Public Market in Davao City. This initiative is part of a broader government program designed to assist transport workers grappling with escalating fuel prices. Many beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude for the financial relief, noting that it will significantly help cover their daily operational expenses.
Initial Batch and Progressive Rollout
The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) confirmed that the 437 tricycle drivers who received cash relief assistance in Davao City represent only the initial batch of beneficiaries. Regional Director Rhuelo Aradanas explained that the number is based on lists submitted by the local government unit (LGU), with a second batch expected to follow soon. He emphasized that the LGU is meticulously screening applicants, prioritizing drivers with valid franchises to ensure targeted support.
Aradanas added that the city is anticipated to submit another list next week, as the distribution remains progressive. The rollout will initially focus on major urban centers before expanding to municipalities across the Davao Region. The agency has set a target of assisting 30,000 drivers and assured that sufficient funds are available, even if the number exceeds initial estimates.
Eligibility and Documentation Requirements
The DSWD has yet to schedule subsidies for public utility jeepney (PUJ), bus, taxi, and delivery drivers, pending beneficiary lists from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). Aradanas stated that the agency will prioritize drivers with complete documentation but may also extend assistance to operators who drive their own units. Eligibility for drivers who rent vehicles will depend on validation by both the LTFRB and the LGU.
This clarification comes after concerns were raised by many tricycle drivers, particularly those without franchises, known as colorum drivers, and those renting motorcycles, who feared exclusion due to incomplete paperwork. Aradanas outlined that claimants must present their driver's license along with a photocopy featuring three specimen signatures. He urged drivers to ensure their names match official records to prevent delays in processing.
Ensuring Full Payment and Addressing Grievances
To safeguard against unauthorized deductions, the DSWD has established grievance desks at all payout venues. Aradanas stressed that beneficiaries are entitled to receive the full ₱5,000 amount and should immediately report any discrepancies. He assured that legal assistance is available for those encountering issues, firmly stating, We are giving you ₱5,000 in full, no deductions, nothing missing, nothing extra, and you are not allowed to give any of it to anyone, including the barangay captain or anyone else there.
Distribution Schedule Across the Region
The DSWD will distribute the assistance from April 8 to 10 across several cities in the Davao Region. In the Island Garden City of Samal, 1,791 beneficiaries will receive aid at the city gym during this period. Panabo City will serve 3,443 beneficiaries at its city gym on the same dates, while Tagum City will assist 2,788 beneficiaries from April 8 to 9 at the Tagum E-Park.
In Davao City, the 437 beneficiaries received their subsidies on April 8 at Agdao Public Market. Digos City will handle 4,355 beneficiaries from April 8 to 10 at the city gym, and Mati City will serve 1,856 beneficiaries on April 10 at the Upper Bless Covered Court in Sainz. This coordinated effort aims to provide timely support to transport workers facing economic challenges due to rising fuel costs.
