Senatorial aspirant Chavit Singson met with Iloilo City councilors and 180 barangay captains on Sunday, November 17 to present his transformative proposals for public utility modernization, financial inclusion, and universal basic income (UBI).
In a series of discussions, Singson emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and innovative solutions, focusing on the introduction of electric jeepneys (E-Jeeps), zero-interest loans, the VBank digital app and card, and his ambitious “Chavit P500” UBI program.
“Chavit P500”: A Lifelong Universal Basic Income
Singson announced his intent to file a bill creating a Universal Basic Income (UBI) program if elected to the Senate in 2025. Dubbed “Chavit P500,” the proposal seeks to provide a ₱500 monthly stipend to Filipinos aged 18 and above who earn minimum wage or less.
“Gagawin kong batas ‘yan para lahat magkaroon, pero pangalanan ko na ‘Chavit P500’ para hindi kopyahin,” he said with a smile, underscoring his commitment to implementing lifelong financial support for eligible citizens.
Financial Inclusion Through VBank “Banko ng Masa”
Singson also shared his plans for “Banko ng Masa,” a program set to launch in December. This initiative aims to address the country’s high rates of financial exclusion, with 77% of Filipinos lacking bank accounts and 91% without credit cards.
“We will be giving bank accounts to everybody, without them going to the bank. This would be online because we are now in the world of digitalization,” Singson explained.
Through partnerships with local government units, “Banko ng Masa” will offer digital bank accounts and credit cards to unbanked Filipinos, enabling secure and accessible financial services nationwide.
E-Jeepneys and Local EV Manufacturing
In alignment with the government’s Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP), Singson reiterated his plans to make electric vehicles (E-Vehicles) more accessible to Filipino drivers.
Highlighting his commitment to sustainability, Singson revealed that his electric vehicle factory will relocate from South Korea to Lipa, Batangas by January 2025. The factory will manufacture E-Jeepneys, E-Motorcycles, and E-Tricycles, which will be offered through a no-downpayment, zero-interest financing model.
“This initiative is not just about modernization; it’s about empowering our drivers and contributing to a greener environment,” he stated.
The event in Iloilo City was part of Singson’s ongoing efforts to connect with local leaders and stakeholders across the country. Iloilo City councilors and barangay captains expressed enthusiasm for his proposals, seeing their potential to uplift marginalized communities.
Singson’s initiatives also complement Iloilo’s strides as the first fully compliant local government unit for PUV modernization, setting the stage for a collaborative and impactful implementation.
Through his wide-ranging proposals, Singson aims to address pressing economic and social challenges while promoting sustainability and inclusivity.
“If we can modernize transportation, improve financial inclusion, and provide basic income support, we can create a nation where no Filipino is left behind,” Singson concluded.
As his plans gain traction, Singson is positioning himself as a champion of progressive policies that combine innovation, environmental stewardship, and grassroots engagement.
