Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and newly appointed Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino have agreed to accelerate the rollout of the government’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program to support Brigada Eskwela preparations and generate more jobs for Filipinos.

In a Facebook post, the Office of the Executive Secretary said Recto met with Tolentino to provide direction on fast-tracking the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) priority programs in line with President Marcos’ directive to expand employment opportunities nationwide.

“This is in line with the President’s directive to accelerate initiatives that will generate more job opportunities for Filipinos,” the OES said.

According to the OES, Recto specifically emphasized the strategic implementation of the TUPAD program in support of the upcoming Brigada Eskwela activities before the opening of classes.

The government plans to mobilize TUPAD beneficiaries to help in the maintenance, repair, and beautification of public schools across the country.

The initiative is also expected to provide short-term employment opportunities for disadvantaged and displaced workers.

“He emphasized the need to mobilize TUPAD beneficiaries to help accelerate the maintenance, repair, and beautification of public schools nationwide in preparation for the opening of classes, while at the same time providing short-term employment opportunities to Filipinos in need,” the OES said.

Recto also assured Tolentino of the Office of the Executive Secretary’s full support for DOLE’s programs and initiatives.

The Executive Secretary likewise expressed confidence in Tolentino’s leadership as the new DOLE chief.

Tolentino was recently appointed by President Marcos as acting Labor secretary following the resignation of Bienvenido Laguesma due to health concerns.

Also present during the meeting was Education Undersecretary Fatima Lipp Panontongan.