Pangilinan urges faster aid for 2.2M jobless Filipinos

Opposition Senator Francis N. Pangilinan urged the government to expedite assistance for the 2.2 million Filipinos who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Pangilinan noted the unique circumstances of this year's Labor Day, where workers cannot gather for celebrations due to the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

He specifically mentioned that approximately 200,000 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are among those who lost their livelihoods.

While acknowledging the Department of Labor and Employment's plans for workplace protection and job creation, Pangilinan stressed the need for acceleration.

The senator highlighted the importance of swift cash aid or wage subsidies to prevent hunger among workers' families during the health crisis.

Pangilinan also extended his appreciation to all workers, especially front-liners, those working from home, and micro-entrepreneurs, for their contributions to keeping the economy running.

He emphasized that workers will be crucial in rebuilding the economy and restoring livelihoods as the country transitions to a 'new normal'.