THE DEPARTMENT of Labor and Employment (DOLE) XI, through its Davao del Norte-IGaCoS Extension Office (DIEO), facilitated the contract signing and orientation of 700 Samaleños on May 20, marking the beginning of their 10-day emergency employment under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program.
This endeavor aims to address the pressing issue of malnourishment among children in the Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS), Davao del Norte. Specifically, the engagement focuses on vegetable gardening activities, strategically designed to alleviate malnutrition and reinforce the local government’s efforts. Notably, 200 beneficiaries hailed from families impacted by house fires in Barangay Cawag, further underscoring the program’s role in supporting vulnerable communities.
The program started with a warm welcome message from Emmalyn H. Moriones, Public Employment Services Office (PESO) manager of LGU-IGaCOS. She explained the project’s objectives, underscoring its significance, particularly for the island’s younger population. Following her remarks, Manny Carl D. Clarion, Labor Employment Officer (LEO) III of DIEO, conducted a comprehensive orientation, outlining the engagement’s details, requirements, and essential information.
Meanwhile, the City Agriculture’s Office (CAGRO), represented by Ann Buot, supplied gardening instructions and vegetable seeds to kickstart the endeavor. Designated planting sites include Barangay Cawag, Barangay Peñaplata, and various community backyards across the island. As the project progresses, Barangay LGUs will organize feeding programs for children during the harvesting period. Moreover, upon completion of the TUPAD engagement, Barangay LGUs intend to integrate this initiative into their “Gulayan sa Barangay” project.
In a statement, DOLE XI regional director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy underscored the collaborative effort’s significance in addressing malnutrition, highlighting the TUPAD program’s multifaceted positive impact on youth, families, and the wider community.
The orientation served as a platform to empower residents from different barangays of the island, offering not just employment but also a renewed sense of dignity and purpose. Beneficiaries will receive a daily wage of P462 for their 10-day commitment.
