DOLE Launches Three New Employment Programs in Lapu-Lapu City

Department of Labor and Employment Launches Three New Employment Programs in Mandaue City

Fisherfolk, displaced workers, and small businesses in Central Visayas gain new avenues for financial and employment support as the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) rolls out three specialized programs in Mandaue City, the Philippine Information Agency reported. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino are scheduled to attend the Wednesday launch, which coincides with the opening of the 26th National Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Congress.

The rollout introduces Trabahong-Dagat, Sagip-Trabaho, and SkillPass as part of seven new components under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) initiative. Under Department Order No. 239-E, Series of 2026, DOLE is transforming TUPAD from a purely emergency relief measure into structured pathways connecting vulnerable workers to long-term skills training, formal employment, and enterprise development.

Wage Support for Small Businesses Under Sagip-Trabaho

Sagip-Trabaho provides temporary wage subsidies for up to 90 days to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) facing temporary economic setbacks. The program covers a maximum of 35 qualified workers per employer, ensuring continued salary disbursements while businesses execute recovery plans. Participating employers must maintain mandatory contributions to the Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.

In Central Visayas, the program rollout aligns with the implementation of Wage Order No. ROVII-27, which raises the daily minimum wage by P42 to P582 in Class A areas and P542 in Class B areas. DOLE projects that 337,476 private-sector workers across the region will benefit from the wage adjustment. Tolentino noted in September that the wage subsidy is designed to help small and medium businesses absorb labor cost increases without cutting staff. Yung small and medium na hindi kaya, sasagutin muna ng DOLE ‘yung sweldo nila for 90 days to ensure that the employees will be able to get their salaries and to ensure likewise that the employers would survive, Tolentino stated.

Targeted Support for Coastal Communities and Digital Credentials

Trabahong-Dagat and Blue Enterprise Development target fisherfolk households, coastal youth, and communities facing seasonal disruptions such as closed fishing seasons. Piloted in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Zambales, the program delivers temporary wages, starter tools, equipment, entrepreneurial training, and national certification through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

Complementing these livelihood measures, SkillPass introduces a digital credential for TUPAD beneficiaries and government interns. The system merges documented work experience with TESDA training and certification results into a verifiable QR code. Jobseekers can use the digital passport, linked to the TESDA Skills Passport, to apply for positions, start businesses, or pursue advanced training.

National PESO Congress and Local Government Recognition

The two-day congress gathers local employment officers under the theme “Kaunlaran sa bawat Komunidad, Oportunidad sa bawat Mamamayan.” During the event, DOLE will present the 2025 National Search for Best PESO awards, honoring top-performing local government-run offices, including five Hall of Fame inductees. Conference sessions will also address the impact of artificial intelligence on the modern job market and strategies to strengthen collaboration between PESOs and school placement offices.

Frequently Asked Questions About the DOLE Employment Programs

Which businesses are eligible for the Sagip-Trabaho wage subsidy?

Micro, small, and medium enterprises facing temporary business setbacks qualify for the program, which covers up to 35 workers per employer for a maximum of 90 days. Participating businesses must maintain SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions for their employees.

How does the new SkillPass credential work for workers?

SkillPass provides TUPAD beneficiaries and government interns with a digital credential accessible via a QR code. The system combines verified work history and TESDA training results, allowing employers to instantly check qualifications for job applications or enterprise ventures.

What specific assistance do coastal workers receive under Trabahong-Dagat?

Fisherfolk and coastal residents receive temporary TUPAD wages, starter tools, equipment, market support, and TESDA national certification during livelihood disruptions like closed fishing seasons. The pilot phase runs in the Zamboanga Peninsula and Zambales.

How many workers are expected to benefit from the Central Visayas wage hike?

DOLE estimates that 337,476 private-sector workers in Central Visayas will benefit from Wage Order No. ROVII-27, which increases daily minimum wages by P42 to P582 in Class A areas and P542 in Class B areas.