DOLE slams politicians 'taking advantage' of TUPAD
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has warned politicians who have been taking advantage of its flagship livelihood program to pressure local officials against supporting certain candidates for next year's elections.

"We do not condone such activities, especially those requiring the participation of would-be beneficiaries in caravans to be able to avail of assistance under the TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay para sa Disadvantaged/Displaced workers) program," DOLE said in a statement on Tuesday, Nov. 16.
This, after Senator and presidential aspirant Panfilo Lacson bared that they have been receiving reports from their supporters in the provinces on how TUPAD was allegedly being used to discourage local politicians from supporting opposition candidates.
In a memorandum issued last September, the agency reminded the public that "TUPAD is a DOLE program and not a congressional district activity."
DOLE also emphasized that availing TUPAD assistance is subject to the eligibility of the beneficiaries and compliance with the requirements set by the Department.
TUPAD is the government's community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, including those affected by the ongoing pandemic.
Under the program, beneficiaries will have to render community work for 10 to 30 days, with their salaries based on the regional minimum wage.
"We enjoin everyone to be vigilant to curtail these kinds of irregularities," the Department added.
To avoid irregularities in the rollout of TUPAD, DOLE issued an order that would facilitate the filing of appropriate charges to violators based on existing laws and pertinent rules and regulations.
Additional control measures were also being implemented to ensure that the workers will be protected from any form of abuse, including this alleged requirement, DOLE added.