Manila, March 27 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development began distributing nearly PHP1.5 billion to more than 216,000 drivers in the transport sector, including motorcycle taxi and delivery riders, in Metro Manila.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the agency is gearing up for a provincial expansion of cash relief distribution amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East affecting the global oil supply.

The cash relief, which covers tricycle, jeepney, ride-hailing, delivery, and motorcycle taxi drivers, is being released in phases to cushion the transport sector from the continued rise in fuel prices.

Gatchalian said the distribution is just the first tranche and will not be limited to one round, adding that subsequent pa...