At least 15 female inmates at the Puerto Princesa City Jail Female Dormitory will be employed through a government emergency employment program starting 2 May, according to the Department of Labor and Employment on Monday.

Under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program, the women will receive P430 daily for 10 days while performing facility maintenance tasks and undergoing basic cooking training.

Jail Officer 3 Joefrie Anglo, a spokesperson for the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology MIMAROPA region, said the initiative aims to provide temporary work and equip the inmates with skills for long-term income opportunities.

The short-term employment support aligns with the labor department’s efforts to extend TUPAD assistance to vulnerable groups, including inmates. The program expanded to include more correctional facilities nationwide in 2023 as part of rehabilitation strategies.

Officials stressed the program’s gender-responsive approach, noting that many female inmates are primary caregivers and face unique challenges while incarcerated.

The initiative is a joint effort of the labor department, the jail management bureau and local government units, with support from community partners.

Officials also expressed hope that continued access to training and income support will aid the participants’ successful reintegration into society after their release.