Baguio: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Cordillera have rolled out a new initiative to support local drivers and dispatchers in Baguio. A total of 1,253 individuals have been identified as beneficiaries of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, with the initiative divided into two batches.

According to Philippines News Agency, Imelda Romanillos, the DOLE-CAR regional director, stated in a recent media interview that the first batch includes 453 drivers who began their TUPAD work on June 8. The second batch will consist of approximately 800 participants, including dispatchers. The program encompasses 22 routes throughout the city.

Beneficiaries of the program will earn PHP505 each day they operate their jeepneys under the Tuloy Pasada Program. This daily wage is supplemental to their share of passenger fares over a 15-day work period. Romanillos highlighted that the payment package includes personal protective equipment (PPE) and accident insurance coverage through the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

Each participant is slated to receive a total of PHP8,072 for 15 days of work, with a minimum of six hours per day. The wages, amounting to PHP3,463,959 including PPE and insurance, will be distributed weekly by the DOLE. Payment will be based on actual days worked, with drivers required to submit attendance forms.

The TUPAD Tuloy Pasada Program is a targeted effort by the DOLE to alleviate the challenges faced by the transportation sector due to rising fuel costs. Romanillos also mentioned plans to extend the program to La Trinidad, the capital town of Benguet province, as well as other areas within the region.