THE Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Sunday pushed for the immediate approval in Congress of the P1.3-trillion economic stimulus bill, which includes a P155-billion budget to help the labor sector.
Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said the proposed measure, sponsored by Albay Rep. Joey Salceda and Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo, will boost the DOLE’s dwindling funds for various workers’ support program which kicked off as the country battled the economic impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
“We express full support for the early approval in Congress of the proposal of a package that will provide billion-peso stimulus funds for workers,” said Bello.
He said the labor sector package in the proposed economic stimulus bill will help the government extend wage subsidy to formal sector workers affected by the health crisis, similar to the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP).
He also said the measure will be a big help in implementing a “cash for work” program for informal sector workers much like the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers, Barangay Ko Bahay Ko (TUPAD-BKBK) program.
“DOLE has even proposed to Congress the Barangay Emergency Employment Program (BEEP) for workers in tourism, transportation, trade and industries, as well as freelancers, self-employed individuals, and repatriated OFWs,” Bello said.
Under the proposed Philippine Economic Stimulus Act (PESA), a P155 billion funding is proposed for a wage subsidy program for workers of private companies affected by the crisis, as well as to fund cash-for-work programs.
Previously, the DOLE implemented the CAMP, which provided a one-time P5,000 cash assistance to displaced formal sector workers. It likewise also initiated the TUPAD-BKBK which engaged displaced informal sector workers and tapped them in the disinfection and sanitation of the beneficiaries’ dwellings and immediate vicinity and were paid the minimum wage prevailing in their respective areas.
