The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI has begun the pre-implementation phase of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to continue bringing financial aid in Davao Region even this election period.

DOLE XI Field and Satellite Offices has started conducting activities like profiling of beneficiaries and orientation in various municipalities across Davao Region. As of March 2022, there are already a total of 10,427 target beneficiaries under the program with a budget allocation of over Php 63 million.

“We will continue to implement TUPAD as directed by Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III after the Commission on Election granted the request of our Department for the exemption of TUPAD from the activities prohibited during this election period. This shows our commitment to perform our duties for the marginalize and vulnerable workers under any circumstances,” said DOLE XI Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy. The COMELEC approval was issued on February 10, 2022.

Further, DOLE XI gathered its new TUPAD coordinators for capacity building and orientation on Department Orders 173-17 and 219-20 and Administrative Orders 117-21 and 118-21. Said orders contained the guidelines in the implementation of TUPAD and livelihood programs. TUPAD is a community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and seasonal workers for a minimum period of 10 days, but not to exceed a maximum of 30 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed. The salary of workers shall be based on the existing minimum wage in Davao Region. To avail of the program, DOLE advises workers to go to their barangay offices or nearest DOLE XI Field Office to secure the list of requirements and forms for the application of assistance.### MFKM