Surigao Sur detainees receive assistance from DOLE
By: Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Surigao del Sur Field Office disbursed salaries to 551 persons deprived of liberty (PDL) under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program on March 24-25 across various detention facilities in Surigao del Sur province.
The activity demonstrated the national government’s commitment to inclusive development by providing meaningful support to disadvantaged sectors like the PDL.
PDLs detained at Cantilan District Jail, Lianga District Jail, Bislig City Jail and Bislig District Jail each received P4,150 for their participation in a 10-day community work engagement. According to DOLE, their tasks primarily involved cleanup activities at the facilities under the close supervision of their respective jail wardens to ensure proper implementation and compliance with TUPAD program guidelines.
"This opportunity gives us hope that we can still contribute to our community, even while inside," Allan, a PDL beneficiary, said in a local dialect. "The income we earned helps us support our families and prepare for a fresh start once we regain our freedom."
The TUPAD program, a key initiative of DOLE, serves as a lifeline for disadvantaged workers, including persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), by providing much-needed emergency employment. Through this program, PDLs are not only given short-term financial assistance but are also empowered with a renewed sense of purpose and productivity. By engaging in meaningful work, they gain valuable experience, rebuild their confidence and take a step closer to reintegration into society.
The DOLE Surigao del Sur Field Office, in collaboration with the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), remains steadfast in its mission to extend emergency employment assistance under TUPAD to more PDLs. This initiative highlights the government’s strong commitment to rehabilitation, ensuring that even those within correctional facilities are given opportunities to contribute, grow and prepare for a better future beyond detention.(NGPB, PIA-Surigao del Sur)
