ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 9 released over P1.4 million worth of wages under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program which benefited 450 informal sector workers in Zamboanga del Sur Province on July 20 and 22.Regional Director Atty. Roy L. Buenafe said that the assistance is one of DOLE’s critical pandemic response programs under the implementation of recovery and rehabilitation measures under RA 11494 or the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act (BAYANIHAN 2).

“With the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic to the informal sector, the DOLE sees it fit to intensify the implementation of TUPAD in the provinces to help augment the incomes of displaced workers that may have lessened or cut off,” Director Buenafe said.

Each worker received the amount of P 3,160.00 as payment for 10-days work. Wages were distributed to beneficiaries of two municipalities – Dumalinao and Lakewood – at Barangays Sumadat and Gatub, respectively.

DOLE Zamboanga del Sur Field Office Head Miraflor J. Casanes said that the emergency employment projects were made possible through the 2nd Congressional District of Zamboanga del Sur led by Congressman Leonardo L. Babasa, Jr.

Other than wages, workers were oriented on Occupational Safety and Health, were given personal protective equipment (PPEs) and enrolled in a group personal accident insurance under the GSIS.

TUPAD is a community-based package of assistance 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 done. END/With a report from DOLE Zambosur