ADD the ‘bangkeros’ (local ferry boat drivers) in Dagupan City to the jeepney and tricycle drivers reeling from the unprecedented impact of fuel prices, as a result of which, their regular earnings as bangkeros are literally being wiped out daily.

Chris, a bangkero, said he’s already considering taking on other odd jobs since his usual P800 gas allowance for a modest income has increased to P1,500.

“Halos lahat ng kita namin, sa gasoline na napupunta”, he said. “Wala naman kaming magawa kasi linggo-linggo na ito”, he added.

Like many of the city’s jeepney drivers, he and other bangkeros have already taken other jobs to be able to feed their families.

Some have taken construction jobs, while others have returned to fishing.

He said if the trend continues, residents living in the city’s barangay islands will have difficulties being ferried to and from the city’s commercial district because the bangkeros will not be able to live with the usual fares that residents are willing to pay.

“No choice kami. Kesa naman magutom pamilya namin”, he said. (Ahikam Pasion)

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