Gatchalian: P6.3B budget cut to impact 1 million TUPAD beneficiaries

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian highlighted that a P6.3 billion budget cut for the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) program will affect approximately one million beneficiaries.

This reduction, based on the proposed 2026 budget, means about one-third fewer beneficiaries compared to the 4.2 million in 2024.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma confirmed the budget reduction will negatively impact TUPAD beneficiaries, warning of a domino effect.

DOLE Assistant Secretary Amuerfina Reyes added that the cut will particularly affect those in need during calamities and emergencies, as TUPAD serves as an immediate stopgap measure for displaced workers.

Gatchalian urged the Department of Labor and Employment to present concrete data and impact assessments to justify continued support for the program, questioning if it leads to sustainable improvements for beneficiaries.