EMPLOYEES of private sector affected by the deadly coronavirus disease (Covid-19) in Eastern Visayas will receive a one-time P5,000 financial aid, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) regional director Yahya Centi.

“In behalf of Dole-Eastern Visayas, I would like to assure our private workers that we are one with you in facing these tough times. We are doing our best to implement the program as soon as possible for the benefit of the clients we serve here in the region,” said Centi.

The director, however, stressed that availment of the program is not automatic.

“There is a need for our private employers to apply and submit complete requirements. After that our team will evaluate and do the necessary actions,” he said.

Following the Department Order No. 209 on the implementation of Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) signed by Secretary Silvestre Bello III last March 17, affected establishments that adopt the Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) or temporary closure during the pandemic can submit their requirements.

The documents for submission include the establishment report on the Covid-19 pursuant to Labor Advisory No. 9, Series of 2020; and company payroll for the month prior the implementation of FWAs or temporary closure.

“CAMP is one of the department’s response to the Covid-19 crisis we are experiencing now. Through this program we hope to bring relief to our private sector workers and eventually mitigate the immediate adverse economic impacts,” said Centi.

The financial assistance from the department’s safety net program is given to the private workers in lump sum, non-conditional and regardless of employment status.

Based on the guideline, Centi said that applications may be denied for any of the following grounds: (a) ineligibility of the applicant; (b) misrepresentation of facts in the application; and (c) submission of falsified or tampered document. (SunStar Philippines)