DOLE Releases P1.2B Fund for Energy Crisis Relief in Philippines

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The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has released a P1.2 billion standby fund to assist workers impacted by the Middle East crisis and the national energy emergency. Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma announced that the fund aims to support the TUPAD emergency employment and DILP livelihood programs under the government’s “uplift” initiative, offering temporary employment lasting ten to thirty days with wages aligned to the regional minimum.

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With priority given to the transport sector, followed by farmers and fishermen, the aid program ensures job matching and skills training for repatriated overseas Filipino workers in partnership with the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). As of the first quarter of 2026, over 110,000 workers have received assistance through these efforts.

Experts emphasize the significant impact of this funding on maintaining worker stability during economic instability. The assistance aligns with broader governmental strategies aimed at mitigating the effects of external crises on domestic employment. Industry leaders appreciate the prioritization of critical sectors that sustain essential services and local economies.

Looking forward, DOLE plans to expand the initiative to cover more sectors and enhance collaboration with other government agencies. The ongoing reassessment will address evolving needs and the long-term integration of affected workers into the domestic labor market.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · SMNI · 30 Mar 2026