Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has directed the Department of Labor and Employment to speed up the rollout of its priority programs, particularly the government’s emergency employment initiative, to help generate jobs while supporting preparations for the opening of classes.
Recto met with newly appointed Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino on Tuesday to discuss the accelerated implementation of DOLE programs in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to expand job opportunities for Filipinos.
A key focus of the meeting was the strategic deployment of beneficiaries under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers, or TUPAD, program for the upcoming Brigada Eskwela.
Recto said TUPAD workers could help public schools nationwide with maintenance, repair, cleaning, and beautification work ahead of the new school year. The effort is also expected to provide temporary income to Filipinos who need immediate livelihood support.
The initiative seeks to link two government priorities: preparing safe and orderly learning spaces for students, and providing short-term employment for displaced, underemployed, and disadvantaged workers.
Recto also assured Tolentino of the full support of the Office of the Executive Secretary in carrying out DOLE’s key programs and initiatives.
The meeting came as Tolentino begins his work as labor chief, with expectations that the department will help sustain employment generation and strengthen programs for vulnerable workers.
Department of Education Undersecretary Fatima Lipp Panontongan also attended the meeting.