MANILA: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is ready to help workers affected by Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon that drenched large parts of Luzon. 'Already gave directive to DOLE Regional Offices to provide appropriate assistance through our programs, particularly Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program to workers affected by Carina and the habagat,' Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said in a message to reporters Thursday. He said the budget for the program would depend on "how many will be needing assistance and readily available funds.' He said he is waiting for the reports from the agency's regional offices. 'I'm awaiting assessment reports from our Regional Directors as our field personnel have just started to coordinate with local government units (LGUs) and program partners. I don't have specific amount yet,' he said. TUPAD program is a community-based package of assistance that provides disadvantaged workers with temporary employment, f rom a minimum of 10 days up to 90 days. The salary of the workers is based on the prevailing minimum wage in the region. Source: Philippines News agency