MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Tuesday sought budgetary support for programs addressing employment, livelihood, labor protection and social protection needs, particularly among workers in the provinces and marginalized sectors.
Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino led a consultation with representatives of provinces, congressional districts and party-list groups to align the department’s proposed budget with the needs identified by workers and communities, DOLE said.
Among the programs for which the labor department is seeking continued and strengthened budgetary support are the Government Internship Program (GIP), Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), and Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILP).
“The Department’s budget priorities are anchored on creating more and better jobs, protecting workers’ rights through stronger labor governance, and building an equitable and inclusive social protection system,” DOLE said.
The labor department is also seeking support for the newly established Labor Attorneys Office, as well as other programs and services aimed at improving the delivery of labor justice and maintaining industrial peace.
DOLE said strengthening its programs and services would help workers, including those in underserved communities and marginalized sectors, access employment opportunities, livelihood support, labor protection and social safety nets.
The labor department said its budget proposal aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for the judicious use of government resources and for government programs to remain responsive to the actual needs of Filipinos.
