Most traditional jeepney drivers and operators in Pangasinan have received a P5,000 fuel subsidy from the government, but transport groups say hundreds are still waiting for the assistance.

The subsidy aims to help the transport sector cope with rising fuel prices, which may increase further due to tensions in the Middle East.

The One Pangasinan Transport Federation said some drivers and operators, especially in Calasiao and Dagupan, have yet to receive the aid. More than 100 drivers in these areas are still waiting.

“Hindi lahat nakatanggap. May ibang operators, drivers na wala pang natatanggap. ‘Yung mga old cards pa ang hawak nila na hanggang ngayon wala pa silang natatanggap. ‘Yun ang problema natin,” Bernard Tuliao, president of the One Pangasinan Transport Federation, said.

Drivers said the subsidy is a big help as fuel costs continue to rise.

“Para matulungan kami kasi malaking bagay ‘yan para sa amin,” Johnny De Vera, a jeepney driver, said.

The Alliance of Modernized Transport in Region 1 is also waiting for the release of fuel aid for its members.

“Ito kasi ‘yung tulong or relief from the national government,” Jessie Quiros, president of the Alliance of Modernized Transport Region 1, said.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board advised qualified beneficiaries with missing, expired, or inactive cards to go to the Land Bank of the Philippines for validation and card replacement.

The agency said this will ensure that drivers receive their fuel subsidy on time.