The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has provided a total of P430.75 million to fund emergency employment, livelihood opportunities, and labor dispute resolution for 84,539 beneficiaries in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
This support was formalized in December 2023 through a Memorandum of Agreement between DOLE’s regional offices and the BARMM Ministry of Labor and Employment (MOLE).
Under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, 35,417 individuals in Region IX, 25,925 in Region X, and 23,197 in Region XII benefited from emergency employment in various sectors.
To foster sustainable economic growth, the Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) provided P43.64 million to help 1,957 individuals establish their own businesses.
Additionally, the Government Internship Program (GIP) allocated P9.45 million to assist 410 youth in preparing for future careers in public service.
In line with its commitment to labor justice, DOLE’s Regional Arbitration Branch in Region XII successfully resolved 19 labor disputes, including cases of unpaid wages and illegal dismissals.
Working closely with MOLE, DOLE strengthened labor dispute mechanisms by conducting training on the Single Entry Approach (SEnA) and establishing Assistance Desks in Zamboanga City and Isabela City, ensuring the effective enforcement of labor standards.
These programs are integral to the government’s broader Normalization Program, which supports former combatants and their communities in transitioning to peaceful, productive lives while fostering sustainable development in BARMM.