Uswag Ilonggo Partylist, led by Congressman James “Jojo” Ang Jr., distributed Php5.3 million in wages under the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to 1,118 residents of Iloilo City on Sept. 12 at the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand.
Ang emphasized the significance of the TUPAD program, stating that it provides vital support for beneficiaries’ immediate needs while stimulating the local economy. “This initiative not only aids the recipients but also circulates money within the market,” Ang said.
According to DOLE Officer III Jannielyn Magbanua, each beneficiary received Php4,800 for 10 days of work, working four hours per day.
“Aside from the payout, we also provide DOLE uniforms before their engagement and offer one-year accidental insurance coverage. Their tasks typically include cleaning their barangays and declogging canals,” Magbanua explained.
The wages were distributed via transaction codes, enabling beneficiaries to claim their money from participating Palawan Pawnshop branches.
Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the financial support. Chris John Abellar, a 23-year-old criminology student at PHINMA University of Iloilo, said the funds would help with his education expenses.
“This will really help with my tuition,” he shared. Abellar, who worked planting and cleaning for 10 days, noted that this was his second time benefiting from the program.
For 37-year-old single mother Jalyn Amorsolo from Barangay Lanit, Jaro, the aid was crucial for her household.
“This is a significant financial help, especially for someone like me who has no other source of income. I will use it to buy rice and cover other expenses,” she said.
Also attending the event were Executive Assistant to the Mayor Raisa Treñas, Councilor Miguel Treñas, and other local officials. An orientation for 6,800 additional DOLE-TUPAD beneficiaries will be held on Sept. 13.
