The provincial government of Camiguin facilitated the distribution of PHP3 million in aid from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Mambajao town on Thursday, providing PHP7,500 each to 412 beneficiaries under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.

TUPAD is a community-based safety net program that provides temporary wage employment to marginalized, displaced, and seasonal workers. In Camiguin, the program was coursed through the office of lone district Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo.

“We also formally turned over the Department of Labor and Employment Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) to our 24 beneficiaries in the province,” Governor Xavier Jesus Romualdo said.

The DILP, also known as the Kabuhayan Program, is a flagship grant assistance initiative of DOLE that provides marginalized, vulnerable, and displaced workers with capital, starter kits, and training to help start or enhance sustainable livelihood projects.

The distribution of the aid forms part of the provincial government’s continuing efforts to support workers and entrepreneurs affected by economic challenges, including rising fuel prices and the rising cost of living.

Beneficiaries of the TUPAD program received wages for their participation in community projects, while DILP recipients will use the grants to launch or expand their microenterprises, contributing to local economic activity in the island province.

The provincial government of Camiguin, through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO), has been actively facilitating the implementation of DOLE programs to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most. (PNA)