The suspension of cash aid distribution to public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers and operators is lamentable as they continue to wade through high prices of fuel and commodities.
Since the release of the P3-billion fund, not even half of the identified 377,000 beneficiaries received the assistance, which was handed out only for 10 days before the election ban took effect on March 25.
We call on the Commission on Elections to expedite its decision on the appeal by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board for exemption to allow it to continue the distribution.
Our PUV drivers and operators have waited long for the cash aid that we have funded in the annual budget to bring succor to our people in times of distress.
We cannot tell our people to hold on for relief until the elections are over. Hunger simply cannot wait.
