P797-M wage payouts to be released

THE Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) said it will provide financial support and livelihood opportunities to disadvantaged workers across the country this Labor Day.

It said in a news release that 111,418 beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program will receive over P797 million in wage payouts. This emergency employment program involves short-term work assignments lasting between 10 and 30 days to assist those with immediate financial needs.

The department is also distributing P261.5 million in livelihood assistance to 11,257 beneficiaries through its DoLE Integrated Livelihood Program.

“Livelihood grants are provided through startup materials for projects such as sari-sari stores, NegoKarts, agricultural and livestock ventures, fishing, and other community-based enterprises suited to local needs and market opportunities,” the DoLE said.

“Under the program, individuals may receive livelihood starter kits worth up to P50,000, while groups or associations may receive assistance of up to P3 million, depending on the approved project,” it added.

The department noted that additional support is being directed toward vulnerable sectors, including 538 drivers enrolled in the TUPAD Tuloy Pasada Program to address income loss from the energy emergency.

On Wednesday, the department also announced job fairs as part of its Labor Day activities. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking