The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has assured the delivery of assistance to the residents affected by the Kanlaon Volcano unrest in Negros Island.
DOLE Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma explained that the delivery of the assistance will immediately be done once authorities declare that it is safe to distribute aid.
He said the department is prioritizing the safety of its personnel and the affected residents before rolling out its aid programs.
Laguesma added that DOLE’s regional personnel are closely monitoring the situation to determine the appropriate time for delivering assistance without compromising safety.
Once conditions are declared safe, DOLE will implement its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, which will provide emergency employment to support clearing operations in affected areas.
Kanlaon Volcano, one of the Philippines’ most active volcanoes, has been under close observation due to its recent activity, raising concerns about risks to nearby communities.
The TUPAD program aims to offer affected residents an opportunity to earn income through recovery efforts while helping restore stability in their communities.
DOLE also urged residents in affected areas to remain vigilant and strictly follow safety advisories issued by local authorities while awaiting the rollout of its assistance programs.