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.
