The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) MIMAROPA Region, in a statement, has addressed the complaints of several fishermen’s groups regarding the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program.

The groups, composed of fishermen affected by the 2023 oil spill incident in Oriental Mindoro, visited the DOLE MIMAROPA Region office on Sept. 18, 2024 to air their grievances.

They claimed that they have yet to receive the total P200 million allocated by the government for approximately 9,000 members of their associations under the TUPAD program, with each individual entitled to P24,000.

However, the DOLE MIMAROPA Region confirmed that 5,934 members of the associations have already received their wages for 30 days of work under the program, amounting to P71,834,429.

To address the concerns, the office invited representatives of the groups to discuss their grievances peacefully.

Four representatives, including presidents of their associations, responded to the invitation.

Assistant Regional Director Nicanor V. Bon explained the processes and guidelines of the TUPAD program, saying that any funds received under the program are immediately implemented by the Department through partner government agencies.

He also clarified that the funds allocated to MIMAROPA are for all qualified beneficiaries in the region, not just a specific group.

After the meeting, the representatives of the associations are expected to explain the discussions and clarifications to their members.

The groups involved include the Hanay ng Yumayabong at Umuunlad na Mangingisda (HAYUMA), Samahan ng Mangingisda ng Lumangbayan, Brgy. Tawagan-Samahang “Laut”, Brgy. Lazareto-Samahang “Kawa”, Brgy. Gutad-Samahang “Biya”, Brgy. Balite-Samahang “Silba”, Brgy.Suqui-Samahang “Tawilis”, Brgy. Ibaba-East-Samahang “Banamie”, and Brgy. Parang – Samahang “MAPA”.