THE FIRST batch of the public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers and operators, identified as beneficiaries of the city’s transport modernization project, has completed the two-day basic business management training conducted by the Department of Trade and Industry this week.
Scheduled on Aug. 17-18, 2020, the training was part of the livelihood restoration program, one of the social compensation packages offered to PUJ drivers and operators who will be affected by the implementation of the High Priority Bus System (HPBS).
Marlisa Gallo, HPBS social compensation committee in-charge, said the training aims to assist beneficiaries to start their own business with the help of the DTI.
“This seminar is part of the driver’s preparation for their business ventures. If we only give starter kits and they do not have business experience, at least we can give them basic knowledge on how to do business and strategies,” Gallo said.
The first batch of the training was attended by 37 participants, who are drivers and operators and their beneficiaries from Catalunan Grande, Toril, and Calinan routes. These are the routes identified to be the pilot areas of the first phase of HPBS.
The HPBS social compensation committee expects more than 1,300 jeepney drivers and operators to avail of the DTI social package. The DTI is also distributing business start-up kits to the beneficiaries worth P10,000.
PUJ driver John Ortega, one of the beneficiaries, chose to start a sari-sari store business.
“It’s a big help for us, most especially those who will be affected when the jeepneys will be phased out,” he said.
Under the HPBS package, the drive or operator can choose three out of five options, such as educational assistance, skills training, and cash-for-work assistance programs from the Department of Labor and Employment, DTI, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Commission on Higher Education, and the Department of Health.
