Manila: About 13,000 individuals have been identified as beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD), as reported by an official from the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC).

According to Philippines News Agency, Leilani Reynoso, director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) - BWSC, stated in a Radyo Pilipinas interview that approximately 13,709 people are currently participating in the department's emergency employment initiative. Reynoso highlighted that these individuals were profiled as beneficiaries based on data collected during Brigada Eskwela and in areas affected by disasters.

Reynoso further explained that TUPAD is currently operating in collaboration with various agencies, including the Department of Education (DepEd) during Brigada Eskwela, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for tasks such as packing relief goods and assisting the Kadiwa ng Pangulo, and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for tree planting activities. She emphasized that compensation for beneficiaries is determined by multiplying the minimum wage by the number of days worked, with program durations varying from 10 to 90 days.

To ensure workers' safety, DOLE provides personal protective equipment, including boots and gloves, as well as essential medicines to protect against hazards and accidents. The program is available to members of vulnerable sectors and individuals affected by calamities, who can apply through the Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) in their respective cities or municipalities.

Reynoso reiterated that TUPAD serves as a cash-for-work program rather than a government 'ayuda'. The initiative was initially conceptualized in response to Typhoon Ondoy as an urgent employment solution for those affected by disasters and has since become an official employment program under DOLE.