A total of 1,193 drivers of traditional and modernized jeepneys in Bacolod City each received five kilos of rice April 5 from the city government as much-needed relief amid the soaring fuel prices due to continuing tensions in the Middle East.
The distribution was led by the city’s Public Employment Service Office, which moved swiftly to ensure that the rice assistance reached beneficiaries without delay, the city said.
The city deployed pick-up trucks to various PUJ terminals across Bacolod, allowing drivers to receive the rice directly at their respective routes.
For drivers like Rene Mark Garcia of Estefania, the assistance was most welcome, especially for families who depend on daily earnings from driving. “There are days when what we earn barely covers fuel expenses. Sometimes, there’s nothing left to bring home. That’s why this help means so much – not just for me, but for many drivers who are struggling.” ||
