DSWD-Davao Reports Unclaimed Cash Relief Assistance for Tricycle Drivers
The Department of Social Welfare and Development–Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) has disclosed that numerous beneficiaries failed to claim their Cash Relief Assistance (CRA) during the recent scheduled payout. Regional Director Rhuelo Aradanas highlighted that in Davao City alone, 39 beneficiaries did not collect their funds, while approximately 100 cases were recorded in Digos City.
Reasons for Unclaimed Assistance
Aradanas explained that the primary reason for unclaimed CRA is incorrect spelling of beneficiaries' names. He emphasized that the Commission on Audit strictly prohibits the release of benefits if names are misspelled, requiring accuracy in documentation. Additionally, some beneficiaries did not appear at all to claim their assistance, further contributing to the issue.
To address this, DSWD-Davao has coordinated with local government units (LGUs) to discuss solutions. A special payout is being scheduled for those who missed the initial distribution. Aradanas warned that if beneficiaries still fail to claim their assistance, the funds will be returned to the national treasury. He made these statements during a media interview on Monday, April 13, 2026, at SM City Davao.
Documentation Requirements and Distribution Details
The regional director encouraged beneficiaries to bring their driver's license, a photocopy of it, and three specimen signatures for the special payout, though a specific date has not yet been set. He noted that the previous CRA release generally proceeded smoothly, despite some issues in Davao and Panabo City where beneficiaries arrived at event areas without being on the master list.
DSWD-Davao has distributed approximately P62.9 million through the CRA to tricycle drivers in the region, aimed at alleviating financial burdens amid ongoing oil price hikes. According to a department report, P69.3 million was allocated to 12,455 beneficiaries across the region. Breakdowns include:
- 387 beneficiaries served in Davao City on April 8
- 4,322 beneficiaries in Digos City from April 8 to 10
- 3,314 beneficiaries in Panabo City from April 8-9
- 2,773 beneficiaries in Tagum City
- 1,743 beneficiaries in Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS), totaling 12,539
On the first day of distribution, the department disbursed P21,425,000 on April 8, followed by P30,945,000 on April 9, and P10,425,000 on April 10.
Future Distribution Plans
After completing distributions in major cities, DSWD-Davao will begin allocating CRA to tricycle drivers in key municipalities. Aradanas stated that the final beneficiary count is still pending as some LGUs finalize their lists, but a schedule has been established. Each driver in municipalities will receive P5,000, and they are urged to bring all necessary requirements and follow LGU directives.
This initiative underscores the government's efforts to support vulnerable sectors during economic challenges, while highlighting administrative hurdles in social welfare programs.
