Ong, Chaesey Dianne D.; Ortizano, Mery Kristine B.; Portillo, Paula Alyanna Marie M.; Sacorum, Rick Demetrio A.; Suva, Remiel M.; Villanueva, Francis Carl H.
The relationship of the demographic profile and the quality of life of the jeepney drivers, moderated by oil price fluctuation and government support
- Business Research: (BSBA major in Business Economics) - Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, 2023
ABSTRACT: Jeepneys serve as a crucial mode of transportation in the Philippines, providing affordable mobility for commuters. However, drivers in Taft, Manila, experience significant financial hardships due to fluctuating fuel process, directly affecting their income and quality of life. This study examines the moderating effects of oil price fluctuations and government interventions on the relationship between the demographic profile of jeepney drivers and their well-being, using Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs as a framework. A survey of 180 jeepney drivers revealed that factors such as age, marital status, family size, educational attainment, and employment conditions significantly influence their ability to meet physiological, safety, social, self-esteem, and self-actualization needs. Rising fuel costs, coupled with the boundary system, exacerbate income instability, limiting their capacity to afford essential needs such as food, healthcare, and household expenses. While government interventions such as fuel subsidies and social security programs aim to alleviate these financial burdens, most drivers report insufficient support, leading to heightened economic distress. To address these challenges, the study recommends enhancing the Fuel Subsidy Program, ensuring timely and transparent distribution while prioritizing drivers aged 12-49, who reported the highest financial strain. Additionally, expanding social protection programs under Republic Act No. 11199 (Social Security Act of 2018) and Republic Act No. 11223 (Universal Healthcare Act) will provide older drivers and those with larger families better access to healthcare, retirement benefits, and financial literacy programs. Finally, promoting awareness and empowerment initiatives through information campaigns under Republic Act No. 109231 (Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act) will benefit drivers with lower educational attainment, who are often unaware of financial aid and assistance programs. Supporting transport cooperatives under Republic Act No, 9520 (Philippine Cooperative Code of 2008) will further strengthen drivers ability to negotiate better working conditions. By aligning government interventions with the specific needs identified in the survey, policymakers can enhance the financial stability of jeepney drivers, ensuring both their well-being and the sustainability of public transportation.