DOLE recalls exec over TUPAD anomalies in QC

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Thursday has recalled its field officer in Quezon City to shed light on the anomalies in the department’s cash-for-work program for displaced, underemployed, and seasonal workers in the city.

In a statement, the DOLE said Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III ordered the recall of its Quezon City field officer identified as Atty. Joel Petaca of the DOLE-National Capital Region Office to his mother unit.

“I want to know why he allowed such problems to happen in the delivery of TUPAD in Quezon City. He was supposed to monitor the program of our department. Was he negligent?” Bello said.

The move came following allegations of irregularities in the implementation of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program in several districts of the city.

The DOLE earlier halted the disbursement of cash aid in districts of Quezon City after some workers complained that they have been receiving P2,000 when they should be getting P7,500 salary from working for 14 days. The rest of the P5,000 salary was given to the anomalous "coordinators."

The Labor department is also eyeing to file complaints against those involved in the TUPAD anomalies as it tapped the National Bureau of Investigation to investigate the irregularities. 

Reports of ‘ghost beneficiaries’ were also brought to the attention of authorities, according to the DOLE.

Bello said the department is almost done with its investigation on the matter.

He said the DOLE is also waiting for the outcome of the probe conducted by the NBI.

“Once all the reports are in, we will definitely go after the individuals behind this problem,” Bello said.—LDF, GMA News