DOLE-TUPAD program benefits 650 workers in CamSur
LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Labor and Employment in Bicol (DOLE-5) paid PHP3.3-million in cash aid to 650 worker-beneficiaries under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.Johana Vi Gasga, DOLE Bicol spokesperson, said in an interview on Satur.....»»
Bong Go assists displaced workers in Bohol
In a video message conveyed during his team's visit to Carmen and Batuan, Bohol, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go expressed his steadfast commitment to advocate for more pro-poor initiatives and bolster support measures, aiming for a more inclusive economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. "Prayoridad ko ang pagsuporta sa pro-poor programs at dapat po ay sikapin ng gobyerno na walang magutom na Pilipino. 'Yan po ang pakiusap ko parati sa executive," said Go. "Kung merong isusulong na programa o batas, suportado ko po ito basta po makakatulong sa mahihirap at hindi mapunta sa korapsyon ang pera," he added. Go's team, in collaboration with Board Member Nathaniel Binlod, distributed shirts, snacks, and balls for basketball and volleyball to 548 displaced workers gathered at the Carmen Gym on Monday, 16 October. The recipients were also eligible to receive benefits from the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Patuloy tayong magbigay ng oportunidad at pag-asa sa mga manggagawang Pilipino na nawalan ng trabaho o kabuhayan dahil sa mga pagsubok na hinaharap natin. Sa pamamagitan ng ganitong mga programa, marami sa ating mga kababayan ang mabibigyan ng pagkakataon na magkaroon ng pansamantalang trabaho at kumita ng maayos para sa kanilang pamilya,” Go stressed. In his commitment to promoting inclusive economic recovery, Go has underscored the significance of safeguarding the welfare of all sectors, with particular attention to those residing in rural areas. He introduced Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420 which seeks to institutionalize a framework for offering temporary employment to eligible members of underprivileged households in rural regions. If enacted into law, the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP) would be established within DOLE. REAP's primary goal is to furnish temporary job prospects to individuals who meet the criteria of being economically disadvantaged, impoverished, displaced, or seasonal workers. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, then offered medical assistance to the beneficiaries. He advised them to avail of the services of any of the two Malasakit Centers in the province where they may conveniently avail of medical assistance programs offered by the government. In Bohol, the Malasakit Centers are located at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital (GCGMH) in Tagbilaran City and at Don Emilio Del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay. Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). These one-stop shops aim to support impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. Currently, there are 159 Malasakit Centers across the country, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The DOH reported that the Malasakit Center program has already provided aid to more than seven million Filipinos. “Sa mga pasyente, lapitan niyo lang ang Malasakit Center dahil para ‘to sa inyo. Kung may hospital bill kayo, nandiyan ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno na tutulong para mabayaran ito,” said Go. Go further highlighted that his advocacy to enhance the healthcare sector includes the establishment of Super Health Centers at strategic locations nationwide. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds have been allocated under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program of DOH for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. DOH, the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. In Bohol, necessary funds have been allocated to construct Super Health Centers in Buenavista, Candijay, Dauis, Sagbayan, Talibon, Antequera, Balilihan, Bien Unido, Carmen, Panglao, Tagbilaran City, and Ubay. Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in grassroots communities. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, he also supported several projects in Bohol, such as the construction of multipurpose buildings in Alicia, Anda, Balilihan, Batuan, Buenavista, Danao, Dimiao, Duero, Garcia Hernandez, Guindulman, Loay, Loon, and Valencia; improvement of evacuation centers in Panglao, Anda, Balilihan, Carmen, Corella, Garcia-Hernandez and Valencia; installation of a water system in President Carlos P. Garcia; construction of the municipal slaughterhouse in Inabanga; and the acquisition and installation of solar-powered street lights in Getafe. Go, also principally sponsored the passage of RA 11883 which converts GCGMH to Governor Celestino Gallares Multi-Specialty Medical Complex. The post Bong Go assists displaced workers in Bohol appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go assists Talitay displaced workers
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, in coordination with Mayor Sidik Amiril, provided assistance to residents of the Municipality of Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte on Monday, 23 October. Go’s outreach staff joined a distribution activity at the Talitay-covered court and provided snacks, masks, and vitamins to 268 indigents, particularly displaced workers. They also gave away shirts, balls for basketball and volleyball, a mobile phone, and shoes to select recipients. The beneficiaries also qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) after they have completed DOLE’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. "Patuloy po tayong magtulungan upang mas mapabuti pa ang kalagayan ng ating mga disadvantaged at displaced workers. Magkasama tayo sa layuning ito na makabuo ng mas maginhawa at mas matatag na lipunan para sa lahat ng Pilipino," he said. To ensure that those who reside in rural areas lacking job opportunities are taken care of, Go also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 420, which seeks to offer temporary employment to eligible members of low-income rural households who are ready to perform unskilled physical labor for a period of time if enacted into law. Meanwhile, Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, shared his continuing efforts to bring government health services closer to Filipinos. He encouraged the beneficiaries to make use of the Malasakit Centers if they are in need of assistance in settling their hospital bills. “Kung mayroon po kayong karamdaman, halimbawa masakit ang dibdib ninyo, at kailangan n’yo pong magpaospital at kailangan n’yo pong magpaopera sa Davao o sa Maynila sa Philippine Heart Center, magsabi lang po kayo. Tutulungan ho namin kayong magpaopera, pati pamasahe po ninyo tutulungan ho namin kayo,” Go said. Within Maguindanao del Norte, Malasakit Centers are housed in Sanitarium Hospital in Sultan Kudarat and Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City. Residents of Maguindanao del Sur can access the Malasakit Center at Maguindanao Provincial Hospital in Shariff Aguak. “Ang target po ng Malasakit Center ay ma-cover ang inyong billing. Kaya huwag po kayong mahihiyang lumapit sa Malasakit Center dahil para po yan sa inyo, mga kababayan kong Pilipino. At ngayon po, meron na po tayong 159 na Malasakit Centers sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong po sa inyo,” he said. As a one-stop shop where poor and indigent patients can access government medical assistance, the Malasakit Center was initiated by Go in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, a legislation he principally sponsored and authored. The center is home to various agencies including the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), ensuring accessibility to medical assistance programs. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, has also supported several projects in the province, including the construction of public markets in Buldon and Matanog; and the construction of a multipurpose building in Matanog. The post Bong Go assists Talitay displaced workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad
Overseas Filipino Workers, or OFWs, are indeed modern-day heroes. They help boost our economy, but more importantly, they help uplift the lives of their families to give them a better future and also showcase Filipinos' talents, skills, and work ethic to the world. I was in London, United Kingdom last week for an official trip upon the invitation of the British Group Inter-Parliament Union. Led by Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and co-head of delegation Senator Grace Poe, we embarked on several meetings aimed at strengthening relations of the Philippine Senate with our counterparts in the UK parliament to exchange best practices in policymaking while enhancing bilateral relations, fostering economic security, exploring areas of cooperation between the two countries, and promoting the welfare of Filipinos working there. As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and member of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, I also expressed my gratitude to the UK for donating vaccines during the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, we thanked them for other development assistance extended by the UK to the Philippines and for their help in strengthening the Bangsamoro Region. As vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Migrant Workers, I also maximized the visit to highlight efforts in promoting the welfare of more than 200,000 OFWs in the UK, particularly the more or less 40,000 Filipino nurses working there. We were able to raise to the UK policymakers the concerns of Filipino nurses regarding their rights to proper benefits, just compensation, and a safe working environment. We should be proud of Filipino medical frontliners in the UK, particularly nurses who are among the world’s finest. Take, for example, May Parsons, a Filipina-British nurse who became known globally for administering the first COVID-19 vaccine outside of a clinical trial and receiving the UK's George Cross Award. I have co-sponsored a Senate resolution earlier recognizing and commending her achievement. After our official meetings, I met with a group of OFWs, some of them were fellow Dabawenyos, Filipino Muslims, Ilonggos, and Ilocanos, among others. The stories they shared were proof of how resilient our OFWs are. Despite their sacrifices, homesickness, and worries about their families in their hometowns, they maintain their cheerfulness and positive outlook. I brought some good news to our OFWs by informing them about the establishment of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) through Republic Act No. 11641, a legislation for which I am proud to be one of the authors and co-sponsors in the Senate. This measure streamlines the organization and functions of all government agencies related to overseas employment and migration to better address the needs and concerns of migrant workers. I have also filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2297 to institutionalize the OFW Hospital and ensure its continuous operation in San Fernando City, Pampanga, primarily intended for OFWs and eligible dependents. More importantly, a Malasakit Center is operational there to help reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. The establishment of the DMW, the OFW Hospital, and its own Malasakit Center are just a few of our dreams that are now realities for Filipinos to benefit from. These are testaments of our commitment to promote the welfare of migrant workers and their dependents. However, we acknowledge that there is more work to be done. That is why we continue to listen to their concerns, serve them to the best of our abilities, and pursue initiatives to further their cause. I have also filed SBN 2414, which seeks to establish OFW wards in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals if enacted into law. While our efforts continue to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos abroad, our commitment to serve Filipinos facing challenges in their communities remains unwavering. This week, we had groundbreaking ceremonies for Super Health Centers in Cabadbaran City, Agusan del Norte; Brgy. Labangon in Cebu City; Pitogo, Zamboanga del Sur; and in Tigbauan, Iloilo. Through the collective efforts of DOH, LGUs, and fellow lawmakers, we continue to advocate for establishing more community health facilities to help bring public health services closer to those needing medical attention. We have also assisted 1,000 indigents in Llanera, Nueva Ecija, with the office of Cong. Jose Padiernos; 500 members from various sectors in Barangay Mintal, Davao City; 1,900 in Caloocan City, with the office of Congresswoman Mitch Cajayon-Uy. In Cebu City, we also distributed aid to 1,700 residents of the South District with Congressman Edu Rama; 450 in Nagcarlan, Laguna, with Mayor Elmor Vita and Councilor Rey Comendador; and 333 in Pulupandan, Negros Occidental, in collaboration with the Malasakit@Bayanihan group. We also aided 1,000 United Senior Citizens Association members of Quezon City, with Congresswoman Mila Magsaysay, Senator Robin Padilla, and private sector volunteer organizations. My office also extended additional aid to 93 displaced workers in Lumban, Laguna; 210 in Pilar; 217 in Carmen and Batuan in Bohol. DOLE also gave qualified beneficiaries temporary employment. We also supported 200 scholars during their TESDA Orientation in Daet, Camarines Norte. There are also 43 residents of Davao City and nine in La Paz, Agusan del Sur, who were victims of fires and 32 victims of flooding in Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat. They were provided separate assistance and the livelihood kits they received through the DTI program, which we advocated for before and continue to support. We also supported 283 victims of past fires in Cagayan de Oro City by giving separate aid in addition to the emergency housing assistance received from the NHA through a program we pushed for so that they could buy materials like nails, roofing, and other necessities for home repairs. My office also provided immediate help to victims of recent fires, such as 50 families in Baseco, Manila City, and 11 families in Brgy. Alabang, Muntinlupa City. No one is exempt from facing life’s hardships. However, our OFWs have shown us how resilient Filipinos can be. Let us learn from them and, more importantly, do our part in uplifting their lives by advocating for their welfare, promoting their rights, protecting their families, and providing the genuine public service they deserve. The post Advancing OFWs’ welfare, protecting Filipinos abroad appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B
The government has funded green and social projects through the issuance of bonds amounting to $3.55 billion or P195.64 billion from March 2022 to January this year, resulting in bigger areas of replanted forestland and more flood-safe communities and benefiting agricultural entrepreneurs and students with tertiary education. The Sustainability Bond Allocation and Impact Report released Monday by the Department of Finance shows the total fund consisted of four bond transactions dedicated to environment, social and governance or ESG projects. For last year’s bond issuances, the government raised $1 billion in March, 70.1 billion Japanese yen in April, and $750 million in October. In January this year, it raised $1.25 billion. Proceeds from the bonds were used to either fully or partially finance and refinance four groups of projects by various government agencies from 2020 to 2022. DENR’s planting, marine program First, the planting and marine program by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources expanded greenery in forestland spanning 45,947.44 hectares and preserved plants in 191,081 hectares last year. Meanwhile, 244 areas covering 7.73 million hectares of terrestrial, marine, coastal, caves, and wetlands have been protected against biodiversity destruction. The P10.1-billion program provided jobs to 1,868 Filipinos this year from 1,808 in 2020 and financial aid to 68 groups from 25. Moving forward, the Marcos administration aims to boost production of bamboo and indigenous tree species on 3,565 hectares of land. Second, the flood management projects of the Department of Public Works and Highways along the country’s major rivers and river basins increased to 2,088 projects last year from 2,037 in 2020. These included floodways, dikes, water impounding structures and dredging works. The bond proceeds allocation to this program was P80.7 billion or 27 percent of the total project cost. Third, the bond proceeds enabled the Department of Labor and Employment, or DoLE, to provide business training, working capital, tools, and microinsurance to 9,112 members of the marginalized communities and displaced workers. These benefits were given under DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, and Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers or the Emergency Employment Program. Lastly, the Commission on Higher Education and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority were able to distribute funds for free tertiary education and subsidies to Filipino youth. Beneficiaries of free education in CHED-accredited local universities and colleges increased to 349,208 last year from 253,302 in 2020. The post DoF: ESG bond deals hit $3.55B appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Go aids displaced workers in Iloilo City
In a unified endeavor to enhance the well-being of marginalized citizens in Iloilo City, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, in partnership with the city government led by Mayor Jerry Treñas and in coordination with the Department of Labor and Employment, provided various forms of assistance on Friday, 8 September. The initiative was conducted at the Iloilo City Freedom Grandstand, positively impacting 382 displaced workers. Go’s team provided each beneficiary with snacks and shirts. In addition, select individuals were gifted with shoes, as well as balls for basketball and volleyball. Simultaneously, DoLE offered employment assistance through its program for qualified disadvantaged and displaced workers. To further promote the welfare of Filipino workers, Go filed last year Senate Bill No. 1705 which proposes to increase the service incentive leave of private sector employees; and SBN 1707 which seeks to provide competitive remuneration and compensation packages to social workers in the country if enacted into law. He also filed SBN 2107, or the “Freelance Workers Protection Act,” which seeks to provide protection and incentives for freelance workers. The measure, if passed, aims to recognize the rights of freelance workers and ensure that they are protected and adequately compensated for their services. Last year, Go also filed SBN 1183, or the proposed “Media and Entertainment Workers’ Welfare Act,” which seeks to provide enhanced protection, security and incentives for media workers through additional health insurance package, overtime and night differential pay, and other benefits if enacted into law. To ensure that those who reside in rural areas and lack job opportunities are taken care of, Go also filed SBN 420, which seeks to offer temporary employment to eligible members of low-income rural households who are ready to perform unskilled physical labor for a period of time. The post Go aids displaced workers in Iloilo City appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go provides livelihood support to Baliuag workers
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has expressed the need for stronger government interventions to provide more livelihood opportunities, particularly for those who have been adversely affected by the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Go’s team visited Baliuag City, Bulacan on Friday, 1 September, and coordinated with Congresswoman Augustina “Tina” Pancho and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to provide assistance to 269 disadvantaged workers. Conducted at the Barangay Pinagbarilan covered court, Go’s team provided snacks and shirts to all beneficiaries while they also gave away shoes, mobile phones, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. Meanwhile, the qualified beneficiaries also received livelihood support from DOLE’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Nais kong magpadala ng taos-pusong pasasalamat sa TUPAD ng DOLE. Sa gitna ng kinakaharap nating krisis sa kalusugan, ang TUPAD ay naging isang malaking tulong sa ating mga kababayan na naapektuhan ng pandemya,” Go said. “Ang TUPAD ay hindi lamang isang programa; ito'y nagbibigay ng oportunidad at pag-asa sa mga manggagawang Pilipino na nawalan ng trabaho o kabuhayan dahil sa mga pagsubok na hinaharap natin. Sa pamamagitan nito, marami sa ating mga kababayan ang nabigyan ng pagkakataon na magkaruon ng pansamantalang trabaho at kumita ng maayos para sa kanilang pamilya,” he stressed further. Furthermore, Go has been instrumental in pushing for the passage of Republic Act No. 11960, also known as the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act. This law, authored and co-sponsored by Go in the Senate, aims to promote entrepreneurship and local economic development by showcasing and supporting unique products from each town around the country. The OTOP program encourages Filipinos to take pride in their local products, providing a platform for small-scale producers to access a wider market. Go highlighted the OTOP program’s potential to create jobs, stimulate economic growth in communities, and empower Filipinos to become self-reliant entrepreneurs. The senator added that by promoting and investing in locally made products, the OTOP Philippines Act can help revitalize local economies and provide sustainable livelihoods for countless individuals and families across the country. Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, has consistently emphasized the imperative of improving and expanding the country’s healthcare system to guarantee accessible medical services for disadvantaged populations. He has been an advocate for the establishment of Super Health Centers across the country. In the province of Bulacan, the Department of Health (DOH) has identified other strategic locations to establish Super Health Centers, including the cities of Baliuag, Meycauayan, and San Jose del Monte, and the towns of Angat, Balagtas, Bulakan, Pandi, San Miguel, Guiguinto, Marilao, Obando, Paombong, Plaridel, San Ildefonso, and San Rafael. Go likewise encouraged those with health concerns to seek the assistance of the Malasakit Centers at the Bulacan Medical Center in Malolos City, Rogaciano M. Mercado Memorial Hospital in Sta. Maria, and Ospital ng Lungsod ng San Jose del Monte in San Jose del Monte City. The Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), DOH, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. The one-stop shop aims to help impoverished patients by reducing their hospital costs to the least possible amount. Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463 or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program. To date, 158 operational centers have assisted more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to DOH. As the principal sponsor and one of the authors, Go also highlighted the recently enacted RA 11959, widely known as the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The legislation mandates the establishment of regional specialty centers within existing DOH regional hospitals, stressing the government's commitment to enhancing the nation's healthcare infrastructure. Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance supported the rehabilitation of the Bulacan State University Activity Center and the construction of a multipurpose building in Malolos City, the construction of drainages, provision of medical equipment for local hospitals, improvement of the Pandi District Hospital, concreting of a farm-to-market road in San Ildefonso, and many more. Another team of Go was also in Bustos town on the same day and helped more struggling workers. The post Bong Go provides livelihood support to Baliuag workers appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DBM allots P12.9B for various job creation programs
The Department of Budget and Management has earmarked P12.919 billion for the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) initiative, 'Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers' (TUPAD) program in the 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP) to bolster job creation for Filipinos. In a statement on Thursday, DBM said the Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program of DOLE will receive P16.4 billion, from which the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Program will receive P12.92 billion. The TUPAD program, a community-based assistance package providing emergency employment, is expected to benefit over 1.358 million displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers. "We are strengthening social protection measures to ensure that no one will be left behind, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors," Department of Budget and Management Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman said. TUPAD provides occupation to Filipinos for a minimum period of 10 days to a maximum of 90 days, depending on the nature of the work to be performed. All disadvantaged workers aged 18 and older are qualified as TUPAD program beneficiaries. Senior citizens are also eligible for the program, provided that they are fit to work and would not engage in hazardous work. Meanwhile, only one member per family shall be eligible for the assistance. In no instance shall the beneficiaries be availed of more than once in a calendar year, except in cases of natural or human-induced disaster or calamity. Furthermore, DOLE’s Government Internship Program (GIP), which aims to provide opportunities to 13,554 youth beneficiaries, was allocated P807.716 million in the proposed 2024 NEP. On the other hand, the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), which will benefit 63,959 marginalized workers, was allotted P2.3 billion, while P407 million was earmarked for the Adjustment Measures Program. The post DBM allots P12.9B for various job creation programs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized the paramount significance of stronger government interventions for supporting impoverished Filipinos adversely affected by various crises as he personally led a relief activity for struggling Batangueños in San Jose town on Thursday, 17 August. In 2022, former president Rodrigo Duterte approved a law declaring San Jose town in Batangas as the country's "egg basket” through Republic Act No. 11707, which recognizes the local and national "economic significance" of San Jose's egg industry. Recognizing the urgent need for support, Go for his part has tirelessly championed the cause of the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that essential government aid reaches those who need it the most. In partnership with the local government of San Jose, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Go assisted 1,558 fellow Batanguenos at the Vanolato Realty basketball court. Go and his team provided grocery packs, masks, vitamins, and meals to each beneficiary. He likewise gave away bicycles, shoes, mobile phones, watches, shirts, and balls for basketball and volleyball to select recipients. A team from the DSWD extended financial assistance to 1,000 qualified Batangueños through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, while DOLE provided livelihood support to 558 individuals through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. “Mga kababayan ko nandirito po kami ngayong araw na ito (at) may dala lang po kaming kaunting tulong. Mayroon po akong dala mula sa aking opisina. (Bukod pa rito,) ang DSWD po mayroong programa na AICS. Kayo po ang napili na bibigyan po na mga beneficiaries ngayong araw na ito… Iba naman po ang TUPAD ng DOLE. Ito pong programang ito pansamantalang trabaho po ito,” Go said. “Ako po bilang senador ay nagsulong nito para maging benepisyaryo kayo ng mga programang ‘yan sa pakikipag-ugnayan po kay Mayor Ben Patron. Suportado ko po ang mga programa ng gobyerno tulad nito na nakakatulong sa mga mahihirap,” shared Go. Go, who is an adopted son of CALABARZON with familial roots in Batangas and Davao, likewise praised the collective efforts of all local officials, including Mayor Valentino “Ben” Patron and Vice Mayor Noel Virtucio. Barangay Ginebra San Miguel team captain Lewis Alfred "LA" Tenorio, a Batangueño, was also present during the visit. “Minsan ako ay pumunta sa kanyang opisina para hingan kayo ng tulong. Ang sagot niya sa akin, at napagalitan pa ako dahil sabi, Mayor, kahit hindi ka pumunta dito, ako ay Batangueño at bilang Batangueño, una sa puso ko ang mga taga-San Jose,” referring to Go, Mayor Patron recalled during his speech to the beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the senator, who chairs the Committee on Health and Demography in the Senate, reiterated his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility and medical services for the poor and reminded the public to take advantage of the services offered in Malasakit Centers. As a one-stop shop where poor and indigent patients can access government medical assistance, the Malasakit Center was initiated by Go in 2018 and institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463 in 2019, a piece of legislation he principally sponsored and authored in the Senate. As attested by the Department of Health (DOH), the program has already aided over seven million patients nationwide with 158 existing Malasakit Centers all around the country. The Malasakit Centers in the province are located at the Batangas Medical Center in Batangas City and at Batangas Provincial Hospital in Lemery. In addition to his commitment to the Malasakit Center program, Go has conveyed his support to establish more Super Health Centers (SHCs) throughout the country. Under the 2022 national budget, SHCs in Batangas were funded in Ibaan, San Pascual, Agoncillo, Calatagan, Lipa City, Malvar, and Taysan. In 2023, more centers were identified to be established in the towns of San Juan, Tingloy, Lian, and San Jose. In addition, two more SHCs were funded in Lipa City. The SHC is an improved version of a rural health center and offers basic health services such as database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation center, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. “Sa kakaikot ko po sa buong Pilipinas, marami pong lugar walang health facilities. Yung mga buntis nanganganak sa tricycle (o kaya) sa jeepney dahil napakalayo po ng ospital. Ngayon magkakaroon na ng Super Health Center at pwede po itong i-expand ni Mayor. Kaya yung mga buntis pwede nang manganak dyan,” Go cited. “Kapag meron na pong Super Health Center dito sa lugar ninyo, dyan na po pwede magpakonsulta, importante ang early detection ng diseases para hindi lumala ang sakit, at makakuha kayo ng primary care. This will help decongest the hospitals dahil dyan na po pwede na magpagamot. Malaking tulong po nun,” he continued. To help with the economic recovery of the town, Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance, supported the construction of multipurpose buildings, road improvements, rehabilitation of drainage facilities and water systems, and a street lighting project. On the same day, Go attended the blessing and opening of the Malaquing Tubig Bridge and inspected the ongoing road construction in Barangay Palanca going to Barangay Natunuan. As Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go was instrumental in securing funding for these projects. The post Bong Go visits ‘egg basket of the Philippines’ to conduct relief ops appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
MMDA leads Pateros ‘Brigada Eskwela’
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority on Tuesday led the launching of the Department of Education’s Brigada Eskwela 2023 Project at the Pateros Elementary School in Barangay San Pedro, Municipality of Pateros. Personnel from various MMDA offices also undertook declogging of drainage; painting of school façade; trimming and pruning of trees; sidewalk clearing operations; painting of pedestrian lane; misting; repair of furnitures and fixtures like doors, fences, chairs, tables and blackboards; and posting of no-smoking and no-vaping sign. The MMDA said that it will also provide traffic management, transport vehicles and emergency quick response within the school premises. Beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers program under the agency’s partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment also participated in the said activities aimed at improving public schools prior to the resumption of classes. MMDA acting chairperson Atty. Don Artes personally oversaw the services brought by the agency for the Brigada Eskwela and said that the MMDA’s continued participation in the yearly Brigada Eskwela is part of the agency’s commitment to beautify learning spaces and create a conducive learning environment for students in the metropolis. “With our regular coordination with the DepEd on each year’s Brigada Eskwela and now with DoLE under our partnership with them for the TUPAD program, I am very happy that we are able to address the needs of both our displaced workers as well as the teaching community and the students,” Artes said. He added that it is important to teach the students at their early age in keeping the schools orderly. On the other hand, MMDA assistant general manager for Operations Assistant Secretary David Angelo Vargas also appealed for the year-round maintenance of the schools, emphasizing that a clean school would result in a more conducive learning experience for the students. Pateros Mayor Ike Ponce expressed gratitude to the MMDA for lending a hand not only for its schools for this year’s Brigada Eskwela, but for its assistance and help for the entire municipality. The agency is also exploring viable options for a modular rain catchment system which the agency is eyeing to initially put up in pocket parks under overpasses in the metropolis to address possible water woes brought about by the El Niño phenomenon. The post MMDA leads Pateros ‘Brigada Eskwela’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Govt gives cash and aid to flood-ravaged Central Luzon
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that the government is prepared to provide relief goods, financial assistance, and other forms of help to those affected by the floods in Luzon. Marcos said this in his speech as he visited flood-affected areas in Central Luzon on Monday, 6 August, to assess the damage and pledge assistance to those in need. "We are here to make sure that those in need are provided assistance and that help is distributed effectively," Marcos said. "Things are being managed well here. DSWD (Department of Social Welfare and Development) is here, and they were prepared even before the floods and storms arrived. They've sent their relief goods, and DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) is ready to assist those who lost their jobs, those needing a little help to bridge the gap," Marcos added. Marcos also urged residents to be prepared for future floods and storms, as climate change is causing the weather to become more unpredictable. "The truth here is that many of those affected by the flooding were not necessarily those in flood-prone areas," Marcos said. "First and foremost, the amount of rain that fell was significant. From the North to Central Luzon region, we need to really prepare for what we call climate change. The weather is changing, not following the patterns of the past. So, we need to be ready." Heavy rains brought by Super Typhoon Egay and Typhoon Falcon caused floods in Central Luzon. The typhoons caused widespread flooding and damage. The government has declared a state of calamity in several provinces in Central Luzon, including Bulacan, Pampanga, and Tarlac. The floods have displaced thousands of people, and have caused millions of pesos in damage. During the distribution of various government assistance to Pampanga, 1,000 beneficiaries received food packs and were provided with P10,000 each through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program by the DSWD. Conversely, the DOLE allocated P2.3 million to assist 500 beneficiaries in Pampanga through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating mga Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program. The DOLE has a reserve fund of Php65 million designated for approximately 14,000 TUPAD beneficiaries. Additionally, on 4 August, they disbursed another Php30 million for the TUPAD program specifically in Pampanga through their regional office. The agency also granted livelihood assistance amounting to Php6.4 million under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) to seven LGUs, specifically: Candaba, Macabebe, Masantol, Arayat, Porac, and Sta. Ana in Pampanga. Participating in the efforts, the DA presented the Province of Pampanga with a certificate worth P21.6 million. This included 13,354 bags of certified seeds valued at P20.2 million distributed to 8,723 farmer-beneficiaries, 186 bags of hybrid yellow corn and 15 bags of open-pollinated variety worth Php1.1 million given to 154 farmer-beneficiaries, as well as assorted vegetable seeds worth P230,000 provided to 162 farmer-beneficiaries. Following the distribution of aid, President Marcos took part in a briefing at Pampanga Capitol to assess the aftermath of recent typhoons and extensive flooding in the province. This evaluation aimed to determine further assistance that could be offered to those affected by the calamities. The post Govt gives cash and aid to flood-ravaged Central Luzon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
In Lapu-Lapu City, 855 TUPAD beneficiaries receive pay
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu – A total of 855 Oponganons benefitted from the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program of the Department of Labor and Employment in Central (DOLE)-7. Beneficiaries are set to received P4,350 each that they could claim from a partner remittance center using the cash cards that were distributed on Wednesday, […] The post In Lapu-Lapu City, 855 TUPAD beneficiaries receive pay appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
Bong Go leads relief op in Tagum City, Davao del Norte
A day before his birthday, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go personally spearheaded a relief operation for more than a thousand disadvantaged Filipinos in Tagum City, Davao del Norte on Tuesday, June 13. “Ang aking tanging hiling sa panibagong taon na ibinigay sa akin ng Panginoon ay ang magkaroon ng lakas at katatagan na makapagserbisyo pa lalo sa aking kapwa. Katulad ni dating pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, hindi naman ako nagse-celebrate ng aking kaarawan. Mas nais kong iukol ang aking panahon sa pagtulong sa kapwa ko Pilipino dahil hindi ko maiwasang mag-alala para sa ating mga kababayan na higit na nangangailangan,” Go said. Recognizing the significant impact of various crises on poor communities, Go, together with Congressman Pantaleon “Bebot” Alvarez and Governor Edwin Jubahib, made it a priority to provide relief and support to affected individuals and communities to uplift the lives of the poor. “Mawalang galang na po sa inyo kasi lagi kong naririnig, ‘salamat Senador Bong Go, salamat (dating) pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte’. Sa totoo lang, wag kayong magpasalamat sa amin, kami ang dapat na magpasalamat sa inyo dahil binigyan n'yo kami ng pagkakataon na makapagserbisyo sa inyong lahat,” Go expressed in his speech. “Hindi ko sasayangin ang oras na ibinigay n'yo sa akin. Ako (ay) magtatrabaho para sa Pilipino. Sanay akong magtrabaho dahil yan ang nakasanayan ko noon pa man for the past 24 years,” he added. Held at the Davao del Norte Training Center, Go and his team distributed grocery packs, masks, vitamins and shirts to 1,500 struggling residents. Some beneficiaries also received mobile phones, shoes, watches, caps, and balls for basketball and volleyball. A team from the Department of Social Welfare and Development was also in attendance and extended financial assistance. Simultaneously, Go also provided more support to the community in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program which held an orientation for another 721 individuals in the same venue. The said beneficiaries received similar additional assistance from Go’s office. The senator took the opportunity to commend DOLE for its proactive approach in addressing the challenges faced by disadvantaged and displaced workers. The TUPAD program, aims to provide emergency employment and livelihood opportunities to those who have lost their jobs or sources of income due to crisis situations. Recognizing the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare services, Senator Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, also promoted the services of the Malasakit Centers as a one-stop shop for medical assistance programs. In his remarks, Go encouraged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the Malasakit Center at Davao Regional Medical Center in the city. The Malasakit Centers program, initiated by Go in 2018, aims to streamline the process of availing medical assistance by bringing together various government agencies under one roof. “Mayroon na tayong 158 na Malasakit Center sa buong Pilipinas na handang tumulong sa ating mga kababayan. Batas na yan na aking isinulong noon (at) pinirmahan ni (dating) pangulong Duterte. (It) is a one-stop shop, nasa loob na ng ospital ang apat na ahensya ng gobyerno -- ang PhilHealth, PCSO, DOH at DSWD. Kung mayroon kayong pasyente, mayroon kayong Malasakit Center dito sa Tagum at meron din po sa Southern Philippines Medical Center sa Davao City,” Go cited. “Ating pangalagaan ang buhay na ibinigay sa atin ng ating Panginoon, ‘wag natin pabayaan (dahil) marami akong naririnig sa mga kababayan natin na takot magpaospital dahil takot sa babayaran. Tutulungan ko kayo at ng ating gobyerno, wag na kayong mag-alala,” he offered. Go also mentioned that a Super Health Center is set to be established in the city, as identified by the Department of Health. Additionally, Super Health Centers will be constructed in the Island Garden City of Samal, Carmen, Talaingod, and two more in Panabo City. Super Health Centers offer database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services in Super Health Centers are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service; oncology centers; physical therapy and rehabilitation center; and telemedicine, where remote diagnosis and treatment of patients will be done. Through the collective efforts of fellow lawmakers, sufficient funds had been allocated for 307 Super Health Centers in 2022 and 322 in 2023. The DOH, as the lead implementing agency, identifies the strategic areas where they will be constructed. To help contribute to the city’s progress and improved connectivity, Go, who also serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, likewise supported the construction of roads in several barangays. On the same day, Go attended the First Year Davao del Norte Insurgency-Free Anniversary at the Davao del Norte gymnasium. He also graced the groundbreaking of a Super Health Center and led another distribution activity for more indigents in Carmen. ### The post Bong Go leads relief op in Tagum City, Davao del Norte appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
P115 million TUPAD, livelihood aid released in Central Visayas – DOLE
The Department of Labor and Employment has released more than P115 milllion under its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced or TUPAD program and livelihood assistance for workers in Central Visayas......»»
DMW’s strengthened OFW reintegration program
Here’s good news for our returning seafarers who are contemplating retirement from seafaring or, for various reasons, can no longer be employed on board ships. The government has significantly strengthened its reintegration program for seafarers and other overseas Filipino workers under the newly created Department of Migrant Workers. The importance given by the administration of President Bongbong Marcos to overseas workers is shown in the big changes in the National Center for Reintegration of OFWs. Before, this agency was under the Department of Labor and Employment before becoming a mere adjunct of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. Now, under the DMW, a full-time dedicated official, Assistant Secretary for Reintegration Venecio “Vano” Legaspi, has been designated to oversee the various reintegration programs of the department. He is backed by Labor Attaché Marie Rose C. Escalada from the NCRO. Recently, Labor Attaché Escalada shared with us in the Integrated Seafarers of the Philippines the fresh developments, as well as the welcome changes, in the government’s reintegration programs for OFWs. Through the DMW, the government has come out with a comprehensive five-year Full Cycle Reintegration Road Map. This includes economic, social, cultural, and psychosocial programs for OFWs. This also concerns not only the individual OFWs but also their families, who are directly affected whenever their loved ones leave to work overseas. Another important development is that where before the reintegration program for OFWs started only upon return from their stint abroad, now the full cycle of reintegration covers the pre-departure phase, on-site phase and return phase. In the pre-departure phase, the OFWs and their families prepare for work abroad. The OFWs undergo pre-migration orientation and financial planning. They are made aware of the economic and social costs as well as the benefits of working overseas. In the on-site phase, they continue with their financial planning even as they embark on technical and emotional preparations, such as nurturing family relations as part of addressing the social cost of migration. Technical preparation involves training and upgrading their skills for employment, as well as entrepreneurship training. In the return phase, the OFWs and their families join the job, business, and investment opportunities forum. They are encouraged to continue skills training and skills upgrading for employment and business. For those planning to establish businesses, they undergo business training and mentoring. They are provided access to grants and loans as well as to markets and technology, including OFW e-commerce. Currently, NCRO has several ongoing programs under the return phase: the Balik Pinay! Balik Hanapbuhay Program which provides business training for displaced and distressed OFWs and a P10,000 grant to serve as initial capital for business; the Livelihood Development Assistance Program for undocumented returning OFWs; and a grant of P10,000 as seed capital for business. Before, the agency was under the DoLE before becoming a mere adjunct of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. The biggest program is the Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Pag-Unlad ng Samahang OFWs (Tulong Puso), which provides a one-time livelihood financial grant starting from P150,000 up to P1,000,000 for qualified OFW groups with at least five members and duly registered with the Department of Labor and Employment, the Cooperative Development Authority, or the Securities and Exchange Commission. This is a grant they do not have to pay back as it is sourced from the OWWA-administered workers’ fund. There’s another program dedicated to former teachers who are returning as OFWs — they are offered teaching positions in public elementary and junior high schools. The DMW, according to Labor Attaché Escalada, now has over 70 partners, among them, government agencies, local government units, the private sector, academe, non-government organizations, OFW groups and families, and cooperatives. These partners will help the DMW by providing social and psychosocial services if the OFWs need them, skills training for certain jobs, employment opportunities, and facilitated access to funding or loans if they want to venture into business. It is apparent, however, that the present NCRO programs are designed mainly for land-based OFWs. The DMW is now looking for partners for sea-based OFWs. Next issue, we will share about the promising collaboration between NCRO and ISP. The post DMW’s strengthened OFW reintegration program appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DOLE-7: 720 TUPAD workers from Negros Oriental get pay
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Department of Labor and Employment in Central Visayas (DOLE-7) released on Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2022, about P6.2 million as payment for the wages of 720 workers under the agency’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged (TUPAD) program. In a statement, the agency said the beneficiaries are residents of Bayawan City, Negros […] The post DOLE-7: 720 TUPAD workers from Negros Oriental get pay appeared first on Cebu Daily News......»»
DOLE: Workers gained P4.5b via Tupad cash-for-work tack
The government has distributed more than P4.5 billion in emergency cash to at least a million workers affected by the pandemic under the Department of Labor and Employment’s flagship cash-for-work program, an official said Monday......»»
TUPAD AID NAIPAMAHAGI SA MGA MANGGAGAWA SA BAGUIO!
BUMISITA si Secretary Silvestre H. Bello III, ng Department of Labor and Employment at mga senior officials ng DOLE sa Lungsod ng Baguio upang pangunahan ang pagbibigay ng sahod sa mga benepisyaryo ng Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged / Displaced Workers Program (TUPAD) noong Disyembre 11, 2020 sa Baguio City. Mayroong 1,174 displaced informal […].....»»
DOLE s Bayanihan 1 helps 1,175 workers under CAMP; 675 under TUPAD
SIQUIJOR, Nov. 18 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has assisted 1,745 local workers from 144 establishments under its COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) of the Bayani.....»»
Over 28K workers benefit from TUPAD
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has provided emergency employment to over 28,000 informal workers in Luzon. During the Laging Handa briefing on Thursday, DoLE Undersecretary Ana Dione said a total of 28,505 workers from the informal sector have already benefitted Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. This translates to 30 percent […] The post Over 28K workers benefit from TUPAD appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
369 displaced AC workers benefit from TUPAD program
369 displaced AC workers benefit from TUPAD program.....»»