LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 5 (Bicol) has distributed PHP9.3 million in cash assistance to 1,979 'Kristine'-affected workers from across the region as of Wednesday. Johana Vi Gasga, DOLE-5 spokesperson, said the payout is under DOLE's Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program which benefited those from the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Masbate, and Catanduanes. "We also have an ongoing payout today in various towns across the region. The payout schedule for the assistance is up to Nov. 5, except on Nov. 1, 2, and 3. Each beneficiary received a salary of PHP395 per day depending on the rendered days at work. DOLE's TUPAD Program provides emergency employment for disadvantaged workers for 10-30 days, depending on the nature of the work," Gasga said in an interview. The payout was conducted simultaneously in Camalig, Albay, where 818 beneficiaries received their salaries (PHP3.2 million); in Lupi, Camarines Sur, 240 beneficiaries (PHP9 48,000); San Jose, Camarines Sur, 248 beneficiaries (PHP979,600); San Fernando, Masbate, 384 beneficiaries (PHP3.03 million); Masbate City and Mandaon, 182 beneficiaries (PHP718,900); and San Miguel, Bato, and Virac in Catanduanes province, 107 beneficiaries (PHP422,650). Gasga said TUPAD beneficiaries contribute to various community development projects including cleanup drives, community-based farming initiatives, planting of disaster-resilient crops, and relief goods repacking, among others. In a statement, DOLE-5 director Imelda Gatinao expressed optimism that through the assistance, the beneficiaries will be able to start their lives anew. "We are prepared to help and provide assistance to fellow Bicolanos that were affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. With TUPAD, we will make sure that we will be in this together," she said. Janice Periña, a 33-year-old mother of three and one of the storm-affected TUPAD beneficiaries, thanked the DOLE after receiving the cash assistance, saying the amount is a big help in sustaining her family's needs. Source: Philippines News Agency