In response to recent reports on the uncertainty and displacement of construction workers, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), under the directive of Secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma, immediately reached out to the National Union of Building and Construction Workers (NUBCW) to assess the situation. Secretary Laguesma emphasized that DOLE is closely monitoring developments in all regions and remains open to discussions to address concerns and ensure timely, coordinated interventions.
In a dialogue held recently, representatives from DOLE, TESDA, and NUBCW met to address the urgent needs of displaced workers, many of whom have been left without income or clarity on when continuation of projects will resume. The Secretary already instructed the Regional Offices to mobilize coordinated support for construction workers affected by the suspension of government flood control projects. The assistance package includes emergency employment, livelihood, and job facilitation, as well as skills training and certification.
President Victoriano “Vic” Puerta and Secretary General Santiago Nolla, representing the NUBCW, stated that the suspension of Flood Control Projects has affected a wide network of subcontracted workers, many of whom are under multiple layers of contracting.
One of the strategies to help the workers is the implementation of DOLE’s emergency employment and livelihood programs for immediate support. As an immediate intervention, the DOLE, through its Regional Offices, implements Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), and the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) aims to cushion the economic impact of project suspensions while supporting workers in rebuilding their livelihoods. TESDA also confirmed that it will explore possible on-site certification activities in areas with high concentrations of displaced workers, especially in the provinces, to ensure ease of access and faster delivery of services.
During the dialogue, several agreements were reached: NUBCW committed to identifying displaced workers so they can be referred for assistance; DOLE will profile the affected workers to determine appropriate interventions; and DOLE-NCR Assistant Regional Director Jude G. Trayvilla was designated as the focal point for efficient coordination.
Nolla clarified a statement he previously made in an interview, thanked the DOLE agency for its efforts, and emphasized the importance of ongoing worker involvement in policy-making through mechanisms such as the Construction Industry Tripartite Council (CITC). He pointed out that, through this engagement, NUBCW members have received free certification training programs like Basic Occupational Safety and Health (BOSH) and Construction Safety and Health (COSH), which are essential for both job opportunities and workplace safety. NUBCW also pledged to identify and refer displaced workers—whether in Metro Manila or the provinces—to DOLE for appropriate support.
