DOLE monitors displaced workers in mine closures

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is monitoring the situation in areas where the over 20 mining firms are located after the Department of Environment and National Resources (DENR) ordered their closure last week.

According to Dominique Tutay, Director of the DOLE’s Bureau of Local Employment (BLE), they are ready to provide assistance to workers who will be displaced because of the closure of these mining firms.

“We are monitoring the situation if ever there will be a displacement…nakaabang, handa ang TUPAD and livelihood programs,” she said.

The Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced (TUPAD) is an emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and unemployed poor, for a minimum of 10 days, but not to exceed a maximum of 30 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed.

At the same time, Tutay said the regional offices are also coordinating with the mining firms as well as the workers.

“All I know is that our regional offices do coordinate with the mining firms and workers relative to closure if any…and provide the necessary assistance po,” she said.

On Thursday, the DENR ordered the closure of 23 mining firms for causing destruction to the environment of local communities in areas where they are operating. (PNA)