The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in the Philippines has established the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) as a community-based program designed to offer temporary employment to those adversely affected by the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and other crisis situations. This project is focused on assisting the underemployed, self-employed, and displaced marginalized workers who have found themselves without a source of income due to unforeseen circumstances. Aside from providing these individuals with financial support through temporary jobs, it also seeks to uphold their dignity by engaging them in meaningful community service and improvement projects.
Eligible participants for the program include household helpers, drivers of jeepneys and public utility vehicles, small business owners, vendors, senior citizens fit for work, and independent contractors. However, those who have already benefited from other government assistance programs such as DOLE’s CAMP, DSWD’s AICS, and recipients of aid from the Department of Agriculture, as well as individuals below 18 years old, are not eligible. The project offers a range of benefits including wages based on regional minimum wage standards, employment for 10 to 30 days, personal accident insurance, and necessary materials for community work. Applicants do not need to submit specific documents but their barangays or local government units (LGUs) must coordinate with DOLE to facilitate their inclusion. This program stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting its vulnerable citizens, offering a glimmer of hope and a path to recovery for many during these challenging times.
What is DOLE-TUPAD?
TUPAD is a community-based program that provides temporary employment to workers affected by the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) and other crises. Its goal is to support underemployed, self-employed, and displaced marginalized workers.
Significance of the Program
The DOLE Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program aids in supporting vulnerable Filipinos by providing emergency employment and income to displaced workers, underemployed individuals, and seasonal workers. In 2021 alone, the program benefitted 2.8 million Filipinos, highlighting its significant contribution to the government’s goal of inclusive growth and poverty reduction. Moreover, Senate Bill No. 2087, which aims to institutionalize the program, emphasizes its importance in addressing the needs of disadvantaged and displaced workers during unforeseen circumstances. This legislation also seeks to ensure fair compensation and transparency in the program’s implementation.
Legal Basis
The project is implemented in accordance with DOLE’s labor policies, aiming to address the needs of Filipino workers during crises.
Benefits
- Temporary employment ranging from 10 to 30 days
- Wages based on the regional minimum wage
- Personal accident insurance, a brochure on health and safety, and cleaning/disinfecting materials for community work
Who is Eligible?
- Household helpers, jeepney, PUV, and ride-hailing app drivers
- Small business owners, vendors, dishwashers
- Senior citizens fit to work
- Independent contractors
Not eligible are beneficiaries of DOLE’s CAMP, DSWD’s AICS, individuals who have received assistance from the Department of Agriculture, and those under 18 years of age due to anti-child labor laws.
Requirements
No specific documents are required from applicants. However, the barangay or LGU must submit the following to DOLE:
- TUPAD Work Program
- Letter of Intent
- List of beneficiaries
- Memorandum of Agreement (or Contract of Service) between DOLE and the Barangay/LGU
How to Apply?
- Visit the Barangay Hall or the municipality’s Public Employment Office and request to be included in the list of TUPAD #BKBK beneficiaries.
- If the Barangay or LGU is unfamiliar with the process, an individual can apply by sending an email to the regional DOLE office.
- Task Assignment: Qualified applicants will be assigned tasks such as cleaning and disinfecting their homes and surroundings.
- Receiving Payment: Wages will be received through money remittance (e.g., Palawan Express), administered by the LGU or Barangay.
How to Receive TUPAD Cash Benefits?
- Payment will be distributed through money remittance.
- Beneficiaries will receive 50% of their wages on the 5th day of work, and the remainder at the end of the 10-day work period.
Recent Updates
DOLE TUPAD Program (Through the Office of Senator Robin Padilla)
The Barangay Government of Alabang, led by Kapitana Tintin Abas-Ding, expresses their gratitude to the Office of Senator Robin Padilla, particularly the Department of Labor and Employment – DOLE, for providing the TUPAD Program to the residents of Bagong Alabang. The commitment to delivering comprehensive and satisfactory services continues in the vibrant, progressive, and proud community of Bagong Alabang!
Governor Mamintal “Bombit” Alonto Adiong, Jr. attends the 18th Founding Anniversary and General Assembly of the Philippine Muslim Women Council, Inc. (PMWCI) in Cagayan de Oro City. He is recognized for his unwavering commitment and support for gender and development-related programs and activities. Governor Adiong actively engages in female-led gatherings to address the issues faced by Filipino women in his jurisdiction and has implemented various initiatives to promote women’s welfare and empowerment.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma emphasizes that the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program cannot be used as a substitute for signatures in the people’s initiative drive to amend the Constitution. This statement comes after allegations that the project, an emergency employment program, is being used as a bribe to secure support for the initiative. Secretary Laguesma expresses disappointment, highlighting that TUPAD is intended to assist disadvantaged and displaced workers and has a proper process and requirements set by the Commission on Audit.
Video: Ilang programa ng DOLE, exempted na rin sa spending ban ng COMELEC
The Commission on Elections has decided to exempt certain programs of the Department of Labor and Employment from the election spending ban. One of the programs included in the ban is the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program.
Conclusion
The TUPAD is aimed at supporting our countrymen in the informal sector who have been severely affected by the pandemic and other crises. Through this program, DOLE provides an opportunity for temporary employment, which strengthens the capacity of our workers to recover from adversity and move forward in life.
Applying for TUPAD can be a way for many of our fellow citizens to regain hope and support amidst trials. We encourage all who are in need and eligible to take advantage of this opportunity. With the cooperation of DOLE, LGUs, and the community, we can lighten each other’s burdens and rise together from the pandemic.