Have you seen job offers on Facebook promising cash assistance under the TUPAD program?
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is alerting the public about fraudulent posts circulating on social media, particularly targeting students in Siquijor.
These misleading offers claim to provide temporary employment and cash benefits, but they are not sanctioned by DOLE.
What is TUPAD?
Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) is a community-based emergency employment program aimed at providing temporary work to individuals who have lost their livelihoods due to crises.
Contrary to the fake posts, TUPAD does not offer jobs or cash assistance to students. It is specifically designed for disadvantaged and displaced workers, not for those currently in school or recent graduates.
The Misleading Posts
DOLE-7 Regional Director Lilia Estillore has clarified that the circulating Facebook posts inviting students and graduates to apply for TUPAD jobs are false.
“These online posts are not true. TUPAD is not for students. It does not offer them cash assistance,”
Estillore emphasized. She warned the public to be vigilant about the spread of misinformation, particularly through social media platforms.
Steps to Verify Legitimate TUPAD Offers
To ensure you are not falling victim to these scams, here are some steps to verify the authenticity of any TUPAD job offer:
- Check Official Sources: Trust information only from the official DOLE website (www.dole.gov.ph) and verified social media accounts.
- Contact Local DOLE Offices: Reach out to the nearest DOLE regional, provincial, or field office to confirm any TUPAD-related information.
- Be Wary of Social Media Posts: DOLE does not use social media to implement its programs, including TUPAD. Always be skeptical of job postings on platforms like Facebook.
- Verify Salary Claims: Genuine TUPAD offers do not promise fixed daily salaries like PHP 800. The pay is based on the prevailing minimum wage in your region.
- Check the Application Process: Authentic TUPAD beneficiary selection is not conducted online. It requires submitting documents to DOLE offices for review and approval.
- Age and Eligibility: TUPAD is intended for disadvantaged workers aged 18 and above, not for students or recent graduates.
- Use Official Hotlines: If in doubt, call the DOLE Hotline 1349 to verify any TUPAD-related information.
- Report Suspicious Posts: If you encounter questionable TUPAD job offers, report them to Facebook and inform DOLE.
DOLE’s Stance on the Issue
The DOLE-7 statement also mentioned that the department has no agreement with HUKAS (Hulagway ug Kasikas sa Isla sa Siquijor) regarding the TUPAD program.
“The department has no affiliations with them, neither for TUPAD nor the rest of our programs. What they are spreading online is purely malicious and fraudulent,” Estillore stated.
Estillore assured the public that DOLE has assigned personnel to look into the profiling of the beneficiaries to ensure compliance with guidelines.
The department is committed to safeguarding the integrity of its programs and protecting the public from fraudulent activities.
Stay Informed and Vigilant
DOLE’s proactive stance against fake TUPAD offers underscores the importance of staying informed and vigilant. Always verify the information with official sources and report any suspicious activity. Remember, TUPAD is a legitimate government program designed to help those in need, and its proper implementation is crucial for the benefit of the community.
By following these guidelines and relying on official information, you can protect yourself from scams and ensure that you are accessing the real benefits of government programs.
Sources: THX News, Inquirer, Vera Files, Rappler & Philippine News Agency.
