BOAC, Marinduque — As the year 2024 officially closed, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Mimaropa Region continues its commitment to supporting vulnerable sectors in society, including Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL).
On December 27, the DOLE Marinduque facilitated a payout distribution under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program at various district jails across the province.
A total of 18 beneficiaries from Boac, Gasan, and Sta. Cruz District Jails received their wages after completing 10 days of employment from December 2 to 11, 2024. These PDLs were engaged in various community improvement projects, including gardening, facility maintenance, compost pit creation, and the renovation of visiting areas.
The beneficiaries expressed their heartfelt gratitude as they received their wages worth P 3,950 each. Bert (not his real name), one of the recipients, expressed his joy, saying, “Marami pong salamat at malaki pong katulungan sa aking pamilya ngayong bagong taon. Masayang-masaya po ako at malaking bagay po ito. Salamat po.”
JR (not his real name), another beneficiary, shared his appreciation, stating, “Maraming-marami pong salamat lalong-lalo na sa DOLE at natulungan po kaming nasa piitan. Ito po ay adagdag ko po sa pambili ng lupa na atirikan po ng aming bahay. Maraming salamat po! Merry Christmas po at Happy New Year.”
Notably, some of the beneficiaries are set to regain their freedom soon, marking this payout distribution as a crucial step in their reintegration into society. Through the TUPAD program, the DOLE provides temporary employment and financial assistance to PDLs, helping them regain financial independence, develop new skills, and prepare for a brighter future after their release.
This initiative reflects the Department’s ongoing efforts to uplift the lives of those in marginalized sectors by offering meaningful work opportunities and a sense of purpose. The DOLE’s support extends beyond just financial assistance; it aims to ensure the successful reintegration of PDLs into society.
As 2024 concludes, the department remains committed to providing inclusive opportunities to all Filipinos, regardless of their circumstances. — Marinduquenews.com
