Lapu-Lapu rolls out cash-for-work program for PUV drivers

Local

THE local government unit (LGU) of Lapu-Lapu City has launched its 10-day cash-for-work program for jeepney drivers in the city.

Under the Libreng Sakay program, which was launched on Wednesday, May 6, at least 24 drivers in the city will give a free ride service to commuters along Babag-Mercado route and vice versa from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. daily.

The LGU said this initiative is designed to help the jeepney drivers while assisting the riding public to also ease the transportation cost. The measure is also in response to the rising fuel cost and economic struggles caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The progam is initiated by the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) where funds were also sourced.

Nagiel Bañacia, chief of CDRRMO, said that since the program is a pilot initiative, a transport group in the city with the smallest number of members was chosen to be the first beneficiary.

Divers will receive P450 per day, which is the minimum wage, from the LGU in exchange for providing free rides for one hour.

Bañacia explained that the program was initially planned to run for up to four hours. However, drivers pointed out that the cost of gasoline for that duration would likely consume the entire amount provided to them.

“We are protecting their livelihood. Kay kung gusto kang resilient, protektahan nimo ilang livelihood aron kining mga tawhana if maigo og katalagman dali ra makabalik sa ilang inadlaw-adlaw nga panginabuhi” Bañacia said.

Bañacia added that the program is part of the city’s disaster plan providing livelihood assistance to marginalized sectors severely affected by natural and man-made disasters.

“Mura bag shared responsiblity. Kitang tanan hatagan og assistance sa gobyerno dili lang ang driver sapil sad ang sumasakay,” he said.

The CDRRMO will continue to evaluate the program and will wait for feedback from the drivers and commuters for further improvement.(MyTVCebu)