P1.2-B Lifeline Na: DOLE Preps Jobs and Aid for Vulnerable Workers
Economy | Main subject: Department of Labor and Employment
The Department of Labor and Employment is setting aside an initial P1.2 billion standby fund to strengthen support for vulnerable workers as the Middle East crisis and the ongoing energy emergency keep pressure on jobs and household income.
According to DOLE, the money will mainly flow through its two flagship protection programs — TUPAD and the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program. These are meant to help disadvantaged and displaced workers, including people whose income may be hit by the wider economic effects of the current energy situation.
The agency said it already assisted 110,106 vulnerable workers in the first quarter of 2026, with total support reaching about P753.69 million. That means the new standby fund is not just a plan on paper — may existing rollout na, and the government is now preparing a bigger buffer in case conditions worsen.
DOLE also said it has adopted the government’s UPLIFT framework under Executive Order 110 and is coordinating with transport, social welfare, interior, and local government offices. Transport workers are among the first sectors in line for targeted interventions, while agriculture and fisheries are also being watched for possible assistance.
For overseas Filipinos who may be forced home, DOLE said it is working with the DMW and OWWA on reintegration support, including job matching, skills training referrals, and livelihood help. The agency also pointed to monthly job fairs and upcoming wage-order adjustments as part of the broader response. Source: Philippine News Agency
