Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said it is ready to provide emergency employment to workers affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name Trami). Labor Undersecretary Benjo Benavidez said about 251,000 workers were displaced in areas affected by torrential rains and massive flooding. "Based on our coordination with our regional offices, we have more than 251,000 workers severely affected by Kristine across the country, more particularly in the Bicol Region and Calabarzon. This emergency employment or 10 days of work has a corresponding pay for displaced workers," Benavidez added. He noted that they are also prepared to provide livelihood grant assistance to displaced workers. "This is for the formation or restoration of their livelihood opportunities. We provide individuals a maximum of PHP50,000 and as much as PHP3 million for groups or associations," he said. Benavidez urged affected workers to visit the agency's nearest field office or their local Public Employme nt Service Offices. Source: Philippines News Agency