Pangakong Tupad: Assessing the Impacts of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program in Manila City

Abstract

In Manila City, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) crisis has led to several negative consequences, and its impact has reached and affected nearly every sector of society. The pandemic has led to a severe employment crisis, with its impacts most burdensome for the informal sector whose work requires frequent face-to-face interactions. Utilizing a case study research design and the Inter-Agency Social Protection Assessment’s Public Works Program (ISPA PWP) Tool, this paper discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on six Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) Program beneficiaries in Manila City and examines the implementation of the said program through an assessment of the experiences and challenges confronted by the beneficiaries and the evaluation of the effectiveness of the program. A thematic analysis was conducted from the data gathered through three dyadic semi-structured interviews. Findings show that loss of employment has reduced the individuals’ capability to provide financial assistance to their households and has had significant consequences on their overall well-being. As for the TUPAD Program, beneficiaries have encountered several issues and challenges in relation to the complicated and unorganized listing process. Wages received under the program, though not commensurate with the inflation, were allocated to purchase food and settle household bills. While beneficiaries have a generally positive assessment of the TUPAD Program, discontent still remains on its duration, listing process, and lack of additional benefits. Despite this, the study found that a barangay-led listing process would make the overall program more efficient and effective. Thus, the researcher recommends strengthening further the barangay’s targeting capacity, communication process, and assistance provided to the beneficiaries. Additionally, the program could be improved by increasing wages and other benefits given, exploring alternative employment arrangements, and extending the program’s duration. Future studies about the TUPAD Program may also consider employing a triangulation approach by including in the pool of interviewees, representatives from the barangay council and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Comparative studies within and outside Manila City can also lead to a comprehensive review of the TUPAD Program.