Bicol: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), has provided emergency employment to 140 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers in Sorsogon and 46 drivers from Naga City, Camarines Sur, under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Tuloy Pasada Program.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE-Bicol Regional Director Imelda Gatinao stated that the initiative reflects the government's commitment to assisting vulnerable workers facing economic challenges. "Through TUPAD Tuloy Pasada, we are delivering immediate assistance while ensuring that drivers and conductors continue to receive support as they provide essential public transportation services to our communities," Gatinao said.
She further mentioned that the PUJ drivers in Sorsogon commenced their employment last Monday, while the 46 drivers in Naga City are the initial beneficiaries under the first batch of the program, which started on Wednesday. "Our profiling in Naga is ongoing with the help of the Naga City Cooperative Development Officer, and we are also collaborating with the LTFRB," Gatinao added.
The program aims to help transport workers cope with rising fuel and operational costs while ensuring the continued delivery of public transportation services in communities. Under the 20-day emergency employment program, each beneficiary will receive PHP9,100 in assistance to help sustain their livelihood and support the continued operation of public transport services.
LTFRB-5 Regional Director Joel Defeo emphasized the importance of sustaining the transport sector, describing drivers and conductors as frontliners of mobility and economic activity. Franklin Jaylo, a 39-year-old PUJ driver, expressed that the assistance would significantly help drivers like him continue supporting their families despite rising fuel costs. "This DOLE TUPAD program, together with the LTFRB, is a big help to us. It is a privilege given to us to help support our families. We are grateful to the LTFRB and DOLE TUPAD for the program they provided us," Jaylo said.
