The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) is taking steps to assist jeepney drivers and operators who have been affected by the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Under the department’s “enTSUPERneur” program, affected transport workers will receive P30,000 in livelihood assistance.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma announced that more than 4,500 transport workers have already availed of the program, with an additional 1,500 applicants waiting to receive assistance. The livelihood projects offered through the program include rice retailing, variety store and food stall establishment, animal raising, agricultural input provision, and tailoring, among others.
In addition to financial assistance, the livelihood package also includes materials, inputs, and market linkages to support the beneficiaries. This comprehensive approach aims to provide the necessary resources and opportunities for affected individuals to rebuild their livelihoods.
The “enTSUPERneur” livelihood program is a collaborative effort between the DoLE, Department of Transportation, Office of Transportation Cooperatives, and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board. By pooling their resources, these government agencies are working together to assist the estimated 30,000 workers who will be displaced by the jeepney modernization program.
Recognizing the importance of skills development, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (Tesda) has also been providing training opportunities for jeepney workers through its “Tsuper Iskolar” Program since 2019. This program offers free technical vocational skills training, assessment, and certification to displaced drivers, operators, and their family members. Participants also receive a training allowance of P350 per day for a maximum of 35 days.
By equipping affected individuals with new skills and certifications, the Tesda program aims to enhance their employability and create new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. This initiative not only addresses the immediate challenges faced by jeepney workers but also prepares them for future employment prospects in other industries.
The support provided by the DoLE and Tesda reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and economic stability of its citizens. By offering both financial assistance and skills development opportunities, these programs empower affected individuals to overcome the challenges posed by the modernization program and adapt to the changing landscape of public transportation.
It is important to note that the DoLE’s assistance and Tesda’s training programs are tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the local community. These initiatives take into account the unique laws, customs, and economic conditions of the Philippines, providing targeted support to those affected by the jeepney modernization program.
In conclusion, the Department of Labor and Employment, in collaboration with other government agencies, is actively working to provide livelihood assistance to jeepney drivers and operators affected by the Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program. Through the “enTSUPERneur” program and the Tesda “Tsuper Iskolar” Program, affected individuals are receiving financial support and skills development opportunities to rebuild their livelihoods and secure a better future. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to the well-being and economic stability of its citizens, ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of transportation modernization.
Source: The Manila Times
