Bacolod city: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has distributed PHP22.8 million in assistance for labor, education, and social protection to beneficiaries in Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Francis Tolentino presided over the ceremonial turnover of PHP21.83 million under the Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program. This initiative is aimed at aiding disadvantaged and displaced workers, with the Ilog Kinderhome Foundation Inc. as a key proponent. The event took place at L' Fisher Hotel, benefiting 2,650 workers across various cities and municipalities in Negros Occidental.

In addition, Tolentino released PHP1.02 million in wages to 200 students through the Special Program for Employment of Students, in collaboration with Bacolod City. Financial assistance amounting to PHP34,000 was also provided to 34 sugar workers from Lopez Sugar Corp. and Victorias Milling Company who were affected by Typhoon Tino in November 2025.

Seven beneficiaries, who are dependents of workers' organizations, received scholarships under the Workers' Organization Development Program-Isabelo Delos Reyes Scholarship. The event also featured the signing of a memorandum of agreement between DOLE, Sugar Industry Foundation Inc. (SIFI), and the United Sugar Producers Federation of the Philippines Inc. (UNIFED) to enhance educational opportunities and implement socio-economic programs for sugar workers and their families.

Tolentino emphasized the importance of ensuring fair compensation for sugar workers and promoting a competitive sugar industry in the Philippines. He highlighted the need for labor and management to collaborate in maintaining industrial peace.

During his visit, Tolentino engaged with the DOLE's Regional Coordinating Committee and partner agencies to discuss improving labor governance and expanding employment opportunities in the Negros Island Region (NIR). This visit follows his previous engagement in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, where he introduced PHP174.6 million in aid to over 20,000 beneficiaries.

He reiterated the significance of the NIR, not just as a geographical demarcation but as a symbol of promise for better opportunities and improved living conditions for the people of Negros, including those in Siquijor.