The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 5 (Bicol) has begun profiling potential beneficiaries for livelihood and emergency employment assistance for families affected by the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano.
In a phone interview on Thursday, DOLE-5 Director Imelda Gatinao said nearly PHP6 million has been allocated for emergency employment under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
“DOLE has been on the ground supporting recovery efforts for victims of natural disasters, particularly displaced workers. Our coordinators are in the area, working closely with local government units and using data from the Albay Public Safety Emergency and Management Office,” Gatinao said.
She said coordinators are in evacuation sites to identify qualified beneficiaries, mostly displaced agri-farmers from the permanent danger zone.
“As soon as we are done, we will start orientation. Eventually, there will be work based on the identified jobs,” she said.
About 1,132 individuals are expected to benefit, though the number may rise as reports of displacement continue.
TUPAD beneficiaries will assist in maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in evacuation centers, including waste segregation, the upkeep of temporary shelters, and water and toilet facilities.
They will also help pack and distribute relief goods, and, given the prolonged volcanic unrest, participate in community gardening projects. (PNA)
