DOLE Launches TUPAD Tuloy Pasada for Jeepney Drivers

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) rolled out the TUPAD Tuloy Pasada program on April 13, 2026, to provide additional income for jeepney drivers struggling with rising fuel prices.

The initiative is designed to ease the financial impact of pump price hikes on public utility vehicle (PUV) drivers. An initial group of 134 jeepney drivers operating on selected routes in Metro Manila will receive 695 pesos per day, an amount equivalent to the region’s minimum wage.

According to reporting from GMA News, this financial assistance is provided on top of the regular earnings drivers make from their daily operations.

Program Implementation and Eligibility

Beneficiaries for the initial phase were identified through a profiling and validation process conducted by DOLE, with the primary list sourced from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

Drivers who were not included in the initial list may apply at the nearest DOLE office. To qualify, applicants must present a valid professional driver’s license.

Qualified drivers are eligible to receive this assistance for a period of up to 30 days.

Expansion and National Targets

The government aims to expand the program beyond Metro Manila, with a target to support approximately 50,000 drivers nationwide.

DOLE stated that the program will eventually be extended to other sectors affected by the oil price surge, specifically including truck drivers who are responsible for delivering agricultural products.

The rollout comes amid a broader economic climate where fuel costs have surged. Other government observations include warnings from DOE Secretary Garin that fuel prices are unlikely to return to 60 pesos per liter.

Driver Response

While the beneficiaries of the TUPAD Tuloy Pasada program welcomed the immediate financial relief, they noted that the assistance is a temporary measure. Drivers emphasized that a long-term solution is still required, specifically the reduction of fuel prices.