(DOLE-EASTERN VISAYAS)
TACLOBAN CITY — Transport workers in the municipality of San Sebastian, Samar received a livelihood boost from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) following the distribution of 24 tricycle sidecar units aimed at improving their income and safety on the road.
The assistance, amounting to P912,000, was turned over to members of the San Sebastian Habal-Habal Drivers Association during a ceremony at the municipal covered court held on April 8. The initiative is expected to help drivers transition to more stable and secure transport operations.
DOLE-Samar Field Office Chief Labor and Employment Officer Aleksei Ceasar Abellar said the program forms part of the agency’s continuing support for workers in the informal sector, particularly those relying on daily transport services for livelihood.
Each sidecar unit, worth P38,000, is expected to increase the earning capacity of beneficiaries by allowing them to carry more passengers and small cargo, a significant upgrade for drivers who previously relied on motorcycles alone for “habal-habal” operations.
To ensure safety, Senior Labor and Employment Officer Demmie Jose Uyvico conducted an orientation on occupational safety and health, focusing on proper vehicle maintenance and compliance with traffic regulations.
The project was implemented in partnership with the local government led by Mayor Ferdinand Gaviola, with support from the Public Employment Service Office headed by Virgilio Jabonete.
Local officials said the initiative will not only enhance the livelihood of transport workers but also improve mobility and transport services within the municipality.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
