CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — The municipal government of Magalang is aligning its local assistance program with national government efforts to support transport workers affected by ongoing economic pressures.
Mayor Malu Paras-Lacson endorsed a supplemental budget of ₱11-million that includes financial assistance for key sectors, allocating ₱4 million for the transport sector.
The initiative complements the ongoing rollout of cash relief assistance by the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office III for tricycle operators and drivers’ associations (TODA).
DSWD identified pilot implementation sites in Pampanga, including Magalang, Porac, Mexico, and Candaba to streamline the initial rollout of the cash relief assistance program for transport workers.
The local government said the measure aims to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs and ensure continued livelihood for transport workers, who are among the most affected sectors.
Under Magalang LGU’s supplemental budget, ₱3 million is allotted for localized social pension, while another ₱4 million is earmarked for the agricultural sector, reflecting a broader support strategy for vulnerable groups.
Meanwhile, DSWD has begun distributing cash relief assistance to qualified TODA members, with designated payout sites and guidelines to ensure orderly and transparent implementation.
Beneficiaries must present a valid driver’s license and follow assigned schedules to avoid congestion.
Authorities also reminded recipients to coordinate with local help desks for verification, bring necessary documents, and remain vigilant against scams, emphasizing that the assistance is free and fully provided by the government.
The convergence of local and national interventions highlights a coordinated approach to social protection, ensuring that immediate assistance reaches affected sectors while reinforcing longer-term community resilience.