Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is set to distribute PHP137 million in financial assistance to disadvantaged individuals and workers' groups in the Ilocos Region on Labor Day.

According to Philippines News Agency, approximately PHP131.5 million will be allocated to the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, benefiting over 29,000 individuals. DOLE Ilocos Region chief labor and employment officer Teresa Bonavente shared this information during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas forum.

Additionally, around PHP5.97 million is earmarked for the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), which aims to support 280 groups. In terms of distribution, Ilocos Norte will have 5,692 TUPAD beneficiaries; Ilocos Sur will see 4,703; La Union will benefit 1,531; Western Pangasinan will assist 8,176; Central Pangasinan will cover 4,033; and Eastern Pangasinan will have 4,983 beneficiaries.

For the DILP, there are 164 groups from Ilocos Norte, 16 in Ilocos Sur, 46 in La Union, 29 in Western Pangasinan, and 21 in Eastern Pangasinan. Teresa Bonavente highlighted that most beneficiaries are farmers, fisherfolk, probationers, and disadvantaged workers.

The TUPAD program provides temporary employment to displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers. Meanwhile, the DILP aims to support marginalized and vulnerable individuals or groups by providing financial assistance for starting, expanding, or restoring livelihoods.