THE General Alliance of Workers Associations (Gawa) is urging the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) in Western Visayas to launch a massive information drive on its social amelioration programs amid the prevailing health crisis in the country.
Wennie Sancho, secretary general of Gawa, said the agency has Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program (Camp), which is a one-time P5,000 cash incentive for workers who could not work due to the community quarantine.
Under Department Order 209 signed last March 17, the assistance shall be provided to affected workers in lump sum, non-conditional, regardless of employment status.
Camp is the agency’s safety net that seeks to provide financial support to affected workers as measure to mitigate the adverse economic impact and reduction of income.
Due to Covid-19 pandemic, several private businesses in the country temporarily shuts down for a month-long quarantine.
“Employers should certify immediately their workers who are in the payroll so they can avail of this amelioration program,” he added.
The Bacolod-based labor group is also calling on local government units (LGUs) to inform workers on the informal sectors like tricycle, jeepney and taxi drivers and vendors, among others, on how to avail of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged / Displaced Workers (Tupad).
Sancho said Tupad is a 10-day work program for one member of the family.
Sancho said Gawa has been receiving queries on this labor concerns and there were confusions as to who are covered by this program.
They strongly suggest that a labor desk should be created in every cities and municipalities to assist the workers affected by community quarantine amid the Covid-19 crisis.
“We need unity to succeed,” Sancho added.