Senatorial candidate Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson stressed the need for financial inclusion, especially for jeepney drivers and operators, during a meeting with Cebu’s transport leaders at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Friday.

He emphasized the importance of providing drivers access to bank accounts to earn interest and improve financial literacy.

“When you empower drivers, you empower communities,” he said, advocating for better tools to help drivers manage their finances.

Singson also unveiled plans to fund Electric Vehicles (EVs) for transport cooperatives, aiming to reduce operating costs and modernize public transportation.

“I’m probably the only one crazy enough to give loans like this, just to help,” he remarked, highlighting his commitment to bold reforms.

Singson praised the Cebu People’s Cooperative, led by Chairman Macario "Yoyong" Quevedo, for operating 245 modernized jeepney units in Cebu and Bacolod.

“Their leadership shows how we can uplift our drivers and move the industry forward,” he said.

Manong Chavit's basic income push

As part of his campaign, Singson introduced the Chavit 500 Universal Basic Income bill, which proposes direct cash assistance for workers, including drivers.

He also launched the VBank 5800 to 58 People for 58 Days initiative, offering P5,800 daily to 58 winners for 58 days to promote financial inclusion through his mobile banking platform.

Through these initiatives, Singson noted that he aims to empower drivers and modernize public transport, demonstrating his commitment to improving Filipino livelihoods.