In a significant move to support the disadvantaged, the Department of Labor and Employment in Western Visayas (DOLE-6) disbursed PHP35.9 million to 7,000 workers in Iloilo City over the weekend. The funds were part of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, aimed at providing temporary employment to those in need.
Despite the drizzle, beneficiaries gathered at the Iloilo Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon to receive their transaction codes and collect their earnings, which amounted to PHP5,130 per person. The payout was overseen by Jannielyn Magbanua, the focal person for the DOLE TUPAD program.
The TUPAD initiative targets a variety of workers, including the disadvantaged, underemployed, seasonal, and self-employed. Among the recipients was Rona Lavalle, a 42-year-old mother from Jaro district’s Barangay Bito-on, who expressed gratitude for the timely assistance, especially as she prepared for New Year’s Eve celebrations. She noted that the money would help cover daily expenses as well.
Mary Jane Cortel, a 43-year-old housewife from Tanza Timawa in the City Proper district, shared that the funds would be a significant boost during the holiday season. Similarly, Ramon Salarda, a senior citizen from Barangay Progreso in Lapuz district, planned to use his earnings to purchase essential medication.
Earlier that day, Iloilo City Lone District Representative Julienne Baronda and her Team Sulong Gugma also provided support by distributing five-kilo rice packs to 30,000 selected recipients, further aiding the community during this period.