DOLE XI to implement P28-million TUPAD assistance for quake-affected communities in Davao Region
IN RESPONSE to the powerful earthquakes that struck Davao Region on Oct. 10, 2025, the Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office XI (DOLE XI) will implement the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program for a total of 5,450 beneficiaries with a P28,067,500 allocation across the Davao Region.
The earthquakes, recorded at magnitudes 7.4 and 6.8, respectively, had their epicenter in Manay, Davao Oriental, severely impacting several municipalities and displacing thousands of families. As of Oct. 11, 2025, the Provincial Government of Davao Oriental reported 70,142 affected families, with the highest numbers in the municipalities of Governor Generoso, Banaybanay, and Manay.
Out of the total TUPAD allocation, 4,950 beneficiaries will come from Davao Oriental, while the remaining 500 beneficiaries will be distributed across Davao City, Davao de Oro, Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, and Davao Occidental. Included in the Php28,067,500 total fund is Php2,575,000 earmarked for these beneficiaries in other parts of the region.
The majority of the implementation will be concentrated in the Municipality of Manay, the hardest hit by the recent tremors. Beneficiaries will engage in debris segregation, materials recovery, stockpiling, clearing operations, and waste management activities in affected areas. The emergency employment program will run for 10 days beginning Oct. 13, 2025.
The allocated amount is inclusive of micro-insurance coverage for all beneficiaries to ensure their safety and protection while performing rehabilitation-related tasks.
DOLE XI regional director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to extend immediate support to displaced workers through emergency employment. “Through TUPAD, we aim to help workers rebuild their lives by providing temporary income and livelihood while contributing to the restoration of their communities,” Pensoy said.
