The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Friday reported that it has distributed P210-million worth of aid to typhoon victims in Camarines Sur.

DOLE-Bicol, led by Regional Director Imelda F. Gatinao and Provincial Director Ma. Ella E. Verano distributed the initial payout under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay Para sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program to typhoon-affected workers on 21 November.

An amount of P14,662,342 has been distributed, covering P13,678,850 in wages and ₱983,492 for personal protective equipment (PPE).

This initial payout has benefited 3,463 storm-affected workers across several municipalities, with allocations as follows: Lupi (603 beneficiaries), Milaor (719 beneficiaries), Pasacao (271 beneficiaries), San Fernando (204 beneficiaries), Bombon (107 beneficiaries), Canaman (662 beneficiaries), Sangay (271 beneficiaries), and San Jose (626 beneficiaries).

Each TUPAD beneficiary participated in community rehabilitation efforts, such as clearing operations and sanitizing public spaces, and received P3,950 for their 10 days of service.

Gatinao emphasized the importance of community participation in achieving sustainable recovery.

She assured the beneficiaries of DOLE's continued support and expressed gratitude to all partners who helped implement TUPAD.

“Sa pamamagitin ng TUPAD program, layunin nating hindi lamang tugunan ang agarang pangangailangan ng mga naapektuhan ng bagyo, kundi bigyan din sila ng pagkakataong kumita habang tumutulong sa pagbabangon ng kanilang mga komunidad (Through the TUPAD program, our goal is not only to meet the immediate needs of those affected by the typhoon, but also to give them an opportunity to earn while helping to rebuild their communities),” Gatinao said.

“Patuloy kaming maghahatid ng ganitong programa upang masiguro ang mabilis at sama-samang pagbangon ng bawat pamilyang apektado (We will continue to deliver this program to ensure the quick and collective recovery of each affected family),” she added.

The TUPAD Program offers emergency employment for disadvantaged workers, enabling them to engage in community work for 10 to 30 days.