ZAMBOANGA CITY (PIA) – Around 450 residents of Zamboanga City are set to benefit from the P1.7 million Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in collaboration with the Office of Senator Grace Poe.

The initiative is designed to provide emergency employment to those facing displacement, underemployment, or seasonal work challenges. 

Beneficiaries from various barangays recently participated in an orientation at the City Coliseum in Tetuan before commencing their 10-day employment where they earn a daily wage of P381.

Beneficiaries of the program conveyed their appreciation to the government, emphasizing how it will provide additional income for their families. 

Rhea, a single mother, expressed her gratitude for the 10-day employment, stating, “Malaking tulong na sya para sa pag-aaral ng anak ko at sa pang araw-araw na bilihin (It's a big help for my child's education and for our daily expenses),” she said.

Mayor John Dalipe expressed his gratitude to Senator Poe for extending assistance to the people of Zamboanga City through this program, recognizing its vital role in providing temporary support to those affected by displacement or underemployment. 

Supervising Labor Employment Officer Makaraya Adil, Senior Labor Employment Officer Sylvia delos Santos, and other officials, including Executive Assistant Ron Jacob Orendain and San Roque Kagawad Charlene Mendoza, representing Senator Grace Poe, were present during the orientation program.

As the TUPAD program continues to roll out, it stands as a testament to the commitment of the government to provide tangible solutions that make a positive impact on the lives of its citizens and introduce employment opportunities. (KSA/APG/RVC/EDT/MLE/PIA9-Zamboanga City)