Manila Bulletin
Lawmaker calls for free RT-PCR tests for stranded passengers, PUV drivers
Ako Bicol Party-list Rep. Alfredo Garbin proposed that funds from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) be used to provide free RT-PCR tests for stranded passengers and public utility vehicle drivers.
Garbin appealed to Malacañang, the Department of Finance, and the Department of Transportation to collaborate with Pagcor to allocate gambling revenues for free Covid-19 testing.
He suggested that some funds from the Public Transport Assistance Program's Pantawid Pasada could also finance vaccines and Covid-19 tests for public transport workers in Metro Manila.
The lawmaker specifically requested the inclusion of UV Express and bus drivers and passengers traveling provincial routes, particularly those going to and from Bicol, in the free testing initiative.
Garbin cited a recent incident where nearly 80 passengers of unregistered "colorum" vehicles traveling to the Bicol Region from Metro Manila tested positive for Covid-19.
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