The government has launched the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Tuloy Pasada Program to provide additional livelihood support for transport workers affected by economic pressures, including tensions in the Middle East.
Ordered by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the initiative is a joint effort of the DOLE and DOTr to give drivers and other transport sector workers temporary employment and daily income support.
PCO Undersecretary Claire Castro said the program aims to ease the financial burden of affected workers while ensuring continuous livelihood assistance.
The initial rollout benefited 134 public utility jeepney drivers, who received minimum wage for 20 days in addition to their regular earnings. Covered routes include Anonas/Aurora-Lagro, Fairview Dahlia-Cubao Arayat, Fairview Wet Market-Cubao New York, and Lagro-SM North EDSA.
“Ngayong araw, aabot sa 400 beneficiaries mula sa General Luna at Dapa sa Surigao ang mabibigyan ng sampung araw na minimum wage sa March 24 hanggang April 7.” said Castro.
The government said it remains committed to prioritizing workers’ welfare under the Bagong Pilipinas agenda.IMT
