Those who assumed jeepney franchise starting 2018 are disqualified to get assistance from the government following the implementation of the High Priority Bus System (HPBS).
Atty. Tristan Dwight Domingo, assistant city administrator for administration, said only those who assumed franchises before 2018 will be included in the assistance as long as the legitimate document of franchise and certification of deed of sale are present.
Operators who already have no more units for they already sold their units are no longer included in the assistance, Domingo clarified.
He also encouraged those drivers and operators who have yet to apply on the social development program to submit their applications as early as possible.
Drivers and operators affected by the HPBS will get cash and non-cash assistance from the government. They can choose up to three non-financial assistance from different programs of government agencies.
The Commission on Higher Education will give a four-year scholarship to the applicant.
The Department of Trade and Industry will also give livelihood starter kits depending on the chosen business of the recipient.
The Department of Labor and Employment will have Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers. The program includes the 10-30 days of employment on their Barangay and have a compensation equivalent to the number of days they are working.
The Department of Transportation and Technical Education and Skill Development Authority (TESDA) will offer a Tsuper Scholarship. The recipient will receive a free 15-day bus driving training and will be prioritized on the hiring of bus drivers for the HPBS. They will also receive daily allowance for the whole duration of the training.
Other TESDA services offer includes National Certificate II on Carpentry, Plumbing, Masonry, and Dressmaking.
The Department of Health and the Southern Philippines Medical Center will give medical assistance to the recipient.
The social services will also offer programs to the affected operators and drivers.
These non-financial assistance can be extended to a member of family up to fourth degree of affinity or consanguinity. Yvette Balayon, UM Intern
