Several tricycle drivers in Davao City expressed dismay after being excluded from the Department of Social Welfare and Development's cash relief program, despite lining up to receive assistance.
On April 8, 2026, some tricycle drivers in Davao City voiced their disappointment after they were unable to receive the cash relief assistance distributed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The DSWD released a Php 5,000 cash aid intended for tricycle drivers across the region, but only those included in the master list provided by local authorities were eligible to receive it.
Numerous drivers who visited the payout site at the Agdao Public Market found themselves ineligible and unable to claim the financial aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. Several reported waiting in long lines without clear information on their eligibility or payout schedule. Some drivers had received text notifications about the aid but were surprisingly missing from the official lists at the payout site.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) explained that the master list was sourced from the Davao City Transport and Traffic Management Office (CTTMO) and included only 437 beneficiaries. Gina Molon, CSWDO’s Social Services Welfare Operations Division Chief, advised those who did not receive direct text notifications from CSWDO not to line up, as their eligibility would be verified for future batches.
DSWD Region 11 Director Rhuelo Aradanas emphasized their adherence to the master list submitted by local government units, with guidelines strictly followed to determine qualified beneficiaries. He noted that information about payout venues and schedules is coordinated with the city government and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
DSWD assured that additional payout batches are anticipated to accommodate those not yet served. This approach aims to reach all qualified tricycle drivers who were initially excluded to provide the intended financial assistance during this challenging time.
Sources referenced:
- https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/regions/983294/davao-city-tricycle-drivers-aid/story/