(November 9, 2022) Some 149 farmers affected by the African Swine Fever (ASF) in barangays Mangusu and Curuan have qualified and underwent orientation for TUPAD or Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers program of the Department of Labor and Employment program conducted by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE9) in partnership with the Zamboanga Women’s Association and the Office of the City Veterinarian (OCVET).

City Veterinarian Dr. Mario Arriola said the TUPAD beneficiaries were individuals whose hogs were culled due to ASF infection and compose the first batch of beneficiaries of the TUPAD program implemented by the DOLE-9. Under the program, the qualified farmers will be undertaking cash for work and will receive minimum daily wage. The scope of work includes cleaning and disinfection of pig pens or community service, according to Arriola.

Arriola said this is another form of assistance initiated by the City Government in collaboration with other agencies and groups, for ASF-hit hog raisers in the city.

TUPAD is a “community-based package of assistance that provides emergency employment for displaced workers, underemployed and seasonal workers, for a minimum period of 10 days, but not to exceed a maximum of 30 days, depending on the nature of work to be performed.” Zamboanga City continues to remain under the Red Zone of ASF classification due to increasing infections affecting 34 barangays as of November 8. (Sheila Covarrubias)