Labor group urges Duterte to re-align funds for displaced workers

A labor group, Unyon ng mga Manggagawa sa Agrikultura (UMA), is urging President Duterte to re-align funds to provide cash aid to at least two million displaced workers impacted by quarantine measures.

According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, a significant number of both formal and informal sector workers are in urgent need of assistance due to the lockdown.

UMA criticized the initial government allocation of P1.6 billion for cash assistance, stating it would only cover a small fraction of the affected workforce.

The group proposed redirecting funds from debt service payments and the 'Build, Build, Build' program to financial aid for workers, including those in agriculture.

UMA highlighted the inadequacy of existing government programs like TUPAD and assistance for sugar workers, noting that many are left out or receive insufficient support.

The organization also pointed out disparities in aid distribution by the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Agrarian Reform, which tend to favor specific groups over others.

UMA advocates for prioritizing universal medical care and worker protection, especially for agricultural workers, over corporate subsidies and bailouts in the post-COVID-19 economic stimulus package.