Bill to strengthen emergency employment program passes committee hurdle

By Nimfa Estrellado Quezon Representative Micah "Atorni Mike" Tan (Photo from  his FB Page) LUCENA CITY, Quezon - A bill filed...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Quezon Representative Micah "Atorni Mike" Tan (Photo from  his FB Page)

LUCENA CITY, Quezon - A bill filed by Quezon Representative Micah "Atorni Mike" Tan that aims to institutionalize and enhance the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program has gained approval at the committee level.

This comes after the House Committee on Labor and Employment voted to consolidate Rep. Tan's bill with other similar legislative proposals; it is now one step closer to becoming a law.



The TUPAD program, a key initiative of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), provides short-term employment to those in need, often focusing on community-based projects such as sanitation or disaster response.

Rep. Tan's bill seeks to broaden the program's reach by expanding the categories of eligible beneficiaries within the informal sector. Additionally, the proposal aims to widen the scope of projects that can receive funding and support under the program.

The TUPAD program offers emergency employment opportunities for displaced, underemployed, and unemployed workers.

"I am pleased that the Committee on Labor and Employment recognizes the value of strengthening the TUPAD program," said Rep. Tan. "This initiative will go a long way in supporting those facing economic hardship."

Furthermore, Rep. Tan's bill advocates for the Department of Labor and Employment to spearhead projects that deliver sustainable benefits to Filipino citizens.

The bill also emphasizes the importance of providing training and skills development to the beneficiaries of the TUPAD program to enhance their employability and long-term economic prospects.

Additionally, it calls for closer collaboration between the government and private sector in implementing these projects to ensure a more comprehensive and effective approach towards addressing unemployment and underemployment in the country.