THE FIRST batch of 500 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers from Davao City officially signed their contracts to begin their emergency employment under the TUPAD Tuloy Pasada Program to cushion the impact of the fuel surge caused by the Middle East conflict.
The TUPAD Tuloy Pasada program is a targeted intervention by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Davao City that supports transport workers currently affected by the impacts of the national energy emergency.
In a statement, DOLE XI revealed that the beneficiaries will receive 15 days of assistance with a daily compensation based on the prevailing regional minimum wage of P525.
“For many drivers, the rising costs of fuel and maintenance have made it harder to bring home a decent daily wage. TUPAD serves as a vital ‘safety net’ during these challenging times,” DOLE XI said.
Unlike the conventional TUPAD, which involves community clean-up, the “Tuloy Pasada” initiative enables the drivers to continue earning and to keep essential transport services running.
DOLE said part of their commitment includes providing “libreng sakay (free rides)” within their 15-day work period.
Nely L. Aperocho, DOLE Davao City Field Office, emphasized that the department recognizes the hard work of the transport sector
“Ang departamento walay pamauli sa pagtrabaho aron masiguro nga walay trabahante nga mabiyaan, ilabi na kamo nga nagpadagan sa atong siyudad. Kini nga programa mao ang among paagi sa pag-ingon nga ang gobyerno anaa kanunay aron suportahan kamo (The department hasn’t stopped working to ensure that no worker is left behind, especially you who keep our city running. This program is our way of saying that the government is always here to support you),” Aperocho said.
In an earlier interview, Suzette Jane Antiveros, DOLE XI regional employment programs spokesperson, said the agency will also provide occupational safety and health orientation, personal protective equipment, micro-insurance, and access to further training and employment opportunities on top of Tuloy Pasada assistance.
The official clarified that the assistance is a “temporary aid.” However, if drivers wish to avail skills enhancement, DOLE can endorse them to the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority for skills training, and to the Public Employment Service Office for employment.
