CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Camiguin Provincial Office recently provided a total of P16.1 million worth of financial aid to disadvantaged, self-employed, underemployed, and seasonal workers while 173 young workers successfully completed their internships under the Government Internship Program (GIP).

Gov. Xavier Jesus Romualdo and Rep. Jurdin Jesus Romualdo received the check from DOLE-10 Regional Director Erwin Aquino. The aid will benefit 3,990 people through the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. 

Tupad is a community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment like canal de-clogging, tree planting, grass cutting, or street cleaning for a minimum period of 10 days and a maximum of 90 days. Each beneficiary will receive P4,050 based on the existing regional daily minimum wage rate after a 10-day work period.

The livelihood projects included initiatives for 22 member-beneficiaries of the Tacangon Poblacion Mahinog Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (TPMARBA) through the Hubangon Fisherfolk Association (HUFIA) as the Accredited Co-Partner (ACP). Additionally, 32 individual projects were awarded, benefiting parents of child laborers and persons with disabilities. Fifteen members of the Catarman Barbecue and Grill Vendors Association also received support.

Arlyn Bael, DOLE Camiguin Provincial Field Office chief, highlighted the significance of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) in uplifting the economic well-being of its beneficiaries. Projects ranged from abaca production to barbecue businesses, showcasing the diversity of support provided.

In collaboration with the Provincial Government of Camiguin, DOLE-Camiguin also handed over livelihood projects worth P410,000 to 40 female beneficiaries. These projects, primarily focused on sari-sari stores and rice vending, aim to augment the income of the beneficiaries and contribute to the economic development of the community.

In a separate ceremony on January 12, the DOLE GIP concluded the internship for 173 young workers. The GIP offers opportunities for high school, technical-vocational, or college graduates to gain valuable experience in public service at either local or national government levels. The program aims to equip young workers with practical skills, enhancing their employability in the future.

These initiatives by DOLE underscore a commitment to comprehensive community development, combining support for sustainable livelihoods with opportunities for skill development through internships. These are implemented to foster economic empowerment and provide pathways for the professional growth of the people of Camiguin. (RTP/PIA-10/Camiguin)