GUIMARAS — More than 1,600 informal workers in Guimaras have benefited from the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, which engaged beneficiaries in green jobs and community rehabilitation projects across the province.
A total of 1,612 workers participated in the province-wide initiative, which aims to provide temporary employment to vulnerable sectors while helping strengthen community resilience.
The program was funded with P9,559,160, covering personal protective equipment, group personal accident insurance, and a daily wage of P550 for each beneficiary for 10 days of community service.
On April 16, the DOLE Regional Office 6, under the supervision of Regional Director Atty. Sixto Popoy Rodriguez, facilitated the distribution of wages to beneficiaries in the province.
The beneficiaries included 533 workers from Buenavista, 360 from Nueva Valencia, 359 from Sibunag, and 180 each from Jordan and San Lorenzo.
Rodriguez said the program provides both financial assistance and meaningful work opportunities to disadvantaged workers.
“Through TUPAD, we are not only providing immediate income support but also reinforcing the value of dignified work and community participation,” Rodriguez said.
“Our goal is to ensure that no worker is left behind, especially in times of need, as we continue to build more resilient and empowered communities,” he added.
The TUPAD program supports the national government’s agenda of extending assistance to vulnerable sectors, particularly in rural areas.
DOLE said the successful implementation of the program was made possible through the collaboration of local government units and their Public Employment Service Offices, which facilitated the smooth release of wages.
During the payout activities, partner agencies also provided additional services to beneficiaries. The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) presented available training programs, while PhilHealth gave information on its services and benefits.
DOLE said the continued rollout of TUPAD reflects its commitment to delivering responsive employment interventions that help promote stability and resilience in local communities./PN
