Over 1,400 transport workers in Eastern Visayas get aid

TACLOBAN CITY – As rising fuel prices continue to squeeze the earnings of public transport workers, over 1,400 drivers, conductors, mechanics, and other transport personnel across Eastern Visayas will receive temporary employment and wage assistance under the TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers) Tuloy Pasada 2026 program.

The initiative, jointly launched by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 8 and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Regional Office 8 on Thursday, is part of the national government’s response to the economic impact of rising fuel costs triggered by continuing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

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The program aims to help sustain the livelihood of transport workers while ensuring uninterrupted public transportation services in communities across the region.

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A total of 1,474 beneficiaries from Leyte, Southern Leyte, Samar, and Eastern Samar have been identified to receive assistance under the program, with DOLE allocating more than P14.4 million for wages.

Speaking during the launching ceremony, DOLE Regional Director Dax Villaruel said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to protecting workers from the effects of economic disruptions.

“This is a program that represents the government’s commitment to ensure that every worker is taken care of, especially in this time of economic uncertainty,” Villaruel said.

He added that the program supports the administration’s goal of delivering responsive, inclusive, and people-centered interventions that directly address the needs of vulnerable sectors.

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TUPAD Tuloy Pasada forms part of the government’s Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food, and Transport interventions, which seeks to assist sectors most affected by fuel price increases and other economic pressures.

Under the program, each beneficiary will work six hours a day for 20 days and receive a daily wage of P470.

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To identify participating vehicles, beneficiary-drivers will display tarpaulins bearing the “TUPAD Tuloy Pasada 2026” signage on the front of their units.

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Officials said the program provides not only temporary income support but also helps transport operators and workers cope with rising operational expenses while maintaining essential public transport services for commuters throughout Eastern Visayas./coa