IPIL, ZAMBOANGA SIBUGAY – The Department of Labor and Employment IX (DOLE 9) thru its Zamboanga Sibugay Field Office (ZSFO) employed fifty-two (52) farmers and fishermen displaced by Typhoon Vinta under the “Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD)” Program.

According to Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo, TUPAD is a component of DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP), which is a community-based (municipality/barangay) package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and unemployed poor for a minimum of 10 days, but not to exceed a maximum of 30 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed.

DOLE ZSFO conducted an orientation for beneficiaries on February 19, 2019 where Chief Labor and Employment Officer (LEO) Imelda F. Gatinao and LEO II Julius T. Desoacido gave lectures on the salient features of TUPAD and Occupational Safety and Health respectively.

PESO Manager Gaudencio Abejero also oriented beneficiaries on the various activities they will be involved in for 10 days.

According to Abejero, some beneficiaries will engage in the repair of the cottages/facilities of the beach resort called Brisa Marina which is an eco-tourism enterprise of the LGU.
Meanwhile, other beneficiaries will work in the repair and de-clogging of drainage canals and other drainage systems in Barangay Libertad, Masao and Little Margos, he added.

DOLE 9 released a total budget of PHP 186,212.00 to LGU-Tungawan, an Accredited Co-Partner (ACP) for payment of wages and insurance coverage. Each worker will receive a daily wage of PHP316.00 in compliance to the prevailing minimum wage rates in the Region.

Also present to witness the orientation and release of personal protective equipment to beneficiaries were DOLE IMSD staff – Accountant Ma. Renelia Hamoy and Supply Officer, Ms. Ivy Salarda-Arellano.

TUPAD beneficiaries expressed their gratitude to DOLE for providing them an opportunity to engage in short-term employment as it will help them augment their income. END/With reports from Edyll Grace Poligrates, LEO-III, ZSFO