DOLE-7 takes steps to spare Labor Day events from politics

Local

TO MAINTAIN a non-partisan atmosphere during the Labor Day celebration, the Department of Labor and Employment-Central Visayas (DOLE-7) has barred politicians and electoral candidates from participating in any official activity on May 1.

DOLE-7 Regional Director Roy Buenafe said the agency wants to ensure that the event remains focused on honoring the region’s workers, free from political interference or campaigning.

“We cannot deny that some politicians have partnered with us in the past. But for this year’s Labor Day celebration, I have given clear instructions to our staff and officials to discourage any participation from candidates—incumbent or not,” Buenafe said.

“If there are politicians who insist on attending, we will not give them any role. There are no invitations, no speaking slots, no space for politicking,” he added.

Buenafe said the directive is part of a broader effort to keep the event free from controversy as the midterm election campaign intensifies.

In line with this apolitical stance, DOLE-7 has also suspended the release of wages under its Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program from May 2 to May 13, 2025, despite a clearance from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) allowing its continuation.

TUPAD is a short-term emergency employment program that provides cash-for-work opportunities to displaced and disadvantaged workers.

It is implemented in coordination with local government units.

DOLE-7’s cautious approach comes amid an ongoing investigation into alleged unauthorized deductions from TUPAD beneficiaries in Barangay Canjulao, Lapu-Lapu City.

A video circulating online shows Barangay Captain Rufo Bering explaining that only a portion of the P4,300 cash assistance would be given to recipients, with P3,300 allegedly deducted to fund the city’s “Bayanihan Projects,” including road works on private lots.

While no formal complaint has been filed, Buenafe confirmed that DOLE-7 has launched a fact-finding probe and already met with Lapu-Lapu City officials.

Buenafe further emphasized that the twin decisions to suspend payouts and restrict political involvement in Labor Day events are intended to protect the integrity of DOLE’s programs.(TGP)