Distressed sugarcane workers to get financial aid from DOLE
Migratory sugarcane workers (MSWs) in the Philippines will receive one-time financial aid of PHP 4,000 under a new Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) initiative. This support, outlined in Department Order No. 250, targets distressed MSWs facing work-related injuries, rights violations, or unsafe conditions. The program aims to reduce economic vulnerability and enhance social protection.
CEBU, Philippines — Distressed migratory sugarcane workers are expected to receive financial assistance soon from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), as part of its social protection support initiatives.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma recently signed Department Order No. 250, which outlines the guidelines for the implementation of financial assistance for migratory sugarcane workers.
DOLE emphasized that these Migratory Sugarcane Workers (MSWs) are among the most vulnerable laborers in the agriculture sector.
“They face numerous risks, including precarious working conditions, limited access to social protection mechanisms, and the seasonal nature of their employment,” part of the order reads.
The term “Migratory Sugarcane Worker” refers to a “sacada or migrant and seasonal sugarcane worker who is employed, transported, and has travelled to another place, from one LGU to another LGU, from one province to another province, or region to another region, to perform agricultural service or work in sugarcane farms; and cannot return to his permanent residence on the same working day due to geographic distance of their worksite.”
Meanwhile, a “distressed MSW” is defined as one who has suffered a work-related injury or illness, unjust treatment, or violations of employment contracts and workers’ rights.
Work-related injuries or illnesses may include physical harm from the use of agricultural machinery or manual tools, slips and falls, exposure to hazardous substances, animal bites, and transportation-related incidents when commuting to and from remote worksites. Health concerns may also arise from prolonged exposure to extreme weather, respiratory issues due to inhaling dust, smoke, or chemical fumes, skin conditions caused by contact with irritants, and musculoskeletal disorders from repetitive and strenuous labor.
Through this initiative, DOLE aims to reduce MSWs’ vulnerability to economic and social risks, support existing regulatory measures, and strengthen social protection for marginalized agricultural workers.
Immediate financial assistance is intended to help stabilize the economic situation of distressed MSWs during times of crisis. It also aims to mitigate the impact of work-related emergencies and other unforeseen events that threaten their livelihood.
Qualified distressed MSWs may receive a one-time financial assistance amounting to PHP 4,000.
Funding for this program will be sourced from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) through available approved funds allocated for financial assistance or subsidies to distressed MSWs.
To avail of the assistance, eligible MSWs must apply and submit the required documents to the nearest DOLE office.
DOLE Regional Offices are expected to designate focal persons who will facilitate the processing and approval of applications.
To Read more about Sugar Industry continue reading Agriinsite.com
Source : Philstar Global
