Ilocos region: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Ilocos Region has successfully employed 18,435 individuals to participate in this year's Brigada Eskwela through its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) cash-for-work program. This initiative aims to provide support to public schools while offering temporary employment to local workers.

According to Philippines News Agency, the workers are engaged in various tasks such as cleaning school grounds, beautifying premises, painting classrooms, conducting minor repairs, and assisting with maintenance activities in 678 public schools across the region. Jenny Mapile, DOLE Ilocos Region information officer, stated in a phone interview that these workers are primarily farmers, fisherfolk, crop growers, and members of the transport sector.

The workers will be employed for a period ranging from five to 20 days, with a daily wage of PHP505. A budget of over PHP89.6 million has been allocated to support this program. Exequiel Ronie Guzman, DOLE Ilocos Regional Director, emphasized that the initiative provides temporary employment and income assistance to workers while also preparing schools for the upcoming academic year.

TUPAD is one of DOLE's flagship emergency employment programs, offering immediate relief and short-term job opportunities to displaced, underemployed, and vulnerable workers in the region.