A total of 3,786 disadvantaged workers affected by soaring fuel prices will benefit from the city government’s PHP18.7 million “Kalinigan para sa Ligtas na Legazpi 2026” project, implemented through the Public Employment Service Office and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers) emergency employment beneficiaries will perform 10 days of community work in 35 villages across the city, including declogging canals, repairing school facilities, maintaining community gardens under the “Halina’t Magtanim ng Prutas at Gulay” project, tourism site upkeep, and dengue prevention and sanitation.

Of the total project cost, PHP14,055,525 is provided by DOLE, while PHP4,685,175 serves as equity from the barangay and local government units.

Each beneficiary will receive PHP4,550 in wages for 10 days, based on the PHP455 daily rate; PHP350 worth of personal protective equipment consisting of a TUPAD shirt and hat; and PHP50 for Government Service Insurance System group personal accident insurance, for a total assistance amount of PHP4,950.

DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino said during his speech that the government is resolute in providing livelihood assistance to workers.

“The government is fulfilling its commitment to help provide livelihood opportunities for all of you,” Tolentino told beneficiaries here, emphasizing that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. wants government assistance and programs to reach their intended recipients.

“I believe that, as demonstrated by this response and by the mayor, genuine and sincere public service to the people is carried out and demonstrated properly, not merely on social media,” he added.

He also cited that sustained cooperation among the government, workers and employers is important for delivering public services.

“I hope the TUPAD program becomes part of our culture, not only when DOLE, a congressman or a mayor has an activity. It should continue in other forms,” he said.

Arnel Aydalla, 45, of Matanag thanked the government and hoped that programs like this will continue. He also said the assistance will be used for their daily expenses.

“It will be a big help for my Grade 7 child, especially for his expenses. We will also use a small portion for our business, as we sell food and buko (coconut) juice near the town center,” he said.

Roslyn Lacang, 56, of Arimbay said the program will be particularly helpful to her as a solo parent and person with disability who currently has no work.

“I also have a high school-aged child, so I am very thankful for a program like this. I am grateful that some organizations and programs help citizens like me,” she said.

The “Kalinigan para sa Ligtas na Legazpi 2026” project combines temporary employment assistance for workers with community-based activities to improve sanitation, public facilities, food production, and tourism areas throughout the city. (PNA)