DIGOS CITY, Davao del Sur, July 16 – A total amount of P8.6M assistance under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program of the Department of Labor and Employment was awarded to 1,468 displaced sugarcane workers in the Province of Davao del Sur.

Through the Davao del Sur Field Office (DSFO) of DOLE XI, a check worth P3,771,990.00 was handed over to the 635 displaced workers of Free Planters Multi-Purpose Cooperative (FPMPC).

Another check worth P4,948,020.00 was given to the Davao Mill District Development Council Foundation, Inc. (DMDDCFI) intended for its 833 displaced workers.

The enlisted beneficiaries were assigned to work on canal dredging, road clearing, and maintenance of sugarcane farmlands within the province.

DOLE XI OIC-Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy led the turnover of checks together with the Technical Services and Support Division (TSSD) Chief Paul V. Cruz, Senior Labor and Employment Officer Leo Ariel Pepino, and Livelihood Focal Mrs. Eizarina G. Delos Santos.

The checks were received by the District Tripartite Council members namely Ms. Yolanda Emperado, FPMC manager, DMDDCFI Chairman Mr. Constancio Galinator and manager Mr. Ernesto Arendain Jr.

TUPAD is an Emergency Employment Program (EEP) of DOLE that is a community-based package of assistance providing employment for displaced workers, underemployed and seasonal workers, for a minimum period of 10 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed. (DOLE-XI)