Much has been said about the hiring of contact tracers via the Department of Labor and Employment's (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program the past few weeks.
But how does one apply for the job? Here is a quick list of frequently asked questions and answers (FAQ) on the matter:
Who can apply as contact tracer under TUPAD? How many will be recruited?
As per DOLE, application is open to all informal sector workers affected by the implementation of the enhance community quarantine (ECQ) and modified ECQ (MECQ). A total of 5,000 will be recruited, all from the National Capital Region (NCR) or Metro Manila.
DOLE defines informal sector workers as the self-employed and unpaid family workers.
When will the application period start?
DOLE-Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC) Dir. Ma. Karina Trayvilla said in an online press briefing Wednesday, April 14 that the application period will run from April 17 to 22. The applications will be processed by the Metro Manila local government units' (LGU) Public Employment Service Office (PESO), not DOLE, which will only provide funds for the recruits' salaries.
Trayvilla said that notices of hiring would be coursed through the websites and social media of DOLE, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
"Mayroon doon link na lalabas na naka-connect sa kung saan sila magsa-submit (There would be a link there connecting you to the PESO, where you will submit credentials)," she said.
How much is the salary?
Around P16,000 per month for three months. This complies with minimum wage in NCR.
What are the other requirements for employment as contact tracer?
Aside from being a displaced informal sector worker, the applicant must be at least a high school graduate with basic knowledge on the use of a computer and phone, and interview skills.
Trayvilla said former contact tracers may also apply "for as long as they are not currently gainfully employed".
She said the applicant must also produce a medical certificate as well as a barangay certificate that would serve as proof of residence and his or her status as a displaced worker.
How many hours in a day will the contact tracers work?
Only four hours, according to Trayvilla.
Where will they be deployed?
The contact tracers will be deployed to their own localities. This will make for easier for them since they are already familiar with their respective areas.
Will they be trained beforehand?
Yes, Trayvilla said.