Tacloban: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office has effectively mobilized 10,445 beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. These workers have been deployed to assist in cleaning, repairs, and other necessary preparations across 198 schools in Eastern Visayas in anticipation of the new school year. The initiative is part of efforts to ensure that educational facilities are ready and functional as students return.

According to Philippines News Agency, the deployment began on June 1 and will continue for a duration of 10 days. DOLE Assistant Regional Director Joan Noya-Nidua emphasized that the program has been allocated a budget of PHP53.26 million to cover the wages of these temporary workers. This initiative not only aids in preparing schools but also provides much-needed employment and income support to the parents and guardians of students.

Noya-Nidua affirmed the department's commitment to supporting the Department of Education, stating, "The Department of Education can count on the continued and strengthened support and services of DOLE Region 8 in Brigada Eskwela and in all DepEd initiatives that promote safe, orderly, and quality education for every learner in Eastern Visayas."

The TUPAD program, launched in 2020, is a community-based endeavor designed to offer short-term employment to underemployed, self-employed, and displaced marginalized workers who have been affected by various crises.