Traditional jeepney drivers, who would be affected by the implementation of the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUV-MP), can receive one-time assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Friday, Dec. 29.

In a press release published on the agency’s official website, DSWD Program Management Bureau Director Miramel Laxas said all affected jeepney drivers would be eligible for the AICS program.

“It is possible that they can avail of AICS since they can be categorized as in crisis. Availing of AICS can help them meet their basic needs through different forms of assistance such as food, and cash aid, among others,” Laxas said.

Since the cash aid is one-time only, the DSWD official said other government agencies should offer livelihood programs and other grants to jeepney drivers, who may lose their livelihood.

She also recommended the provision of sustainable services and programs to all affected jeepney drivers.

President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. remained firm that there would be no extension of the Dec. 31 deadline.

Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista said in a statement that “the PUV consolidation deadline stays", as he pointed out that 70 percent of PUV operators and drivers “have already taken part in the consolidation process.”

Transport group PISTON earlier filed a petition asking the Supreme Court to issue a temporary restraining order against government issuances that require drivers and operators to consolidate into cooperatives and corporations until end December.