Senator Win Gatchalian warned that the cancellation of licenses for contractors involved in flood control projects may impact an estimated 100,000 workers. He spoke during deliberations on the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) budget for the next year.
“With this flood control issue, admittedly, [the construction industry] actually slowed down. We are seeing a slowdown in our economic growth and that will also translate into more jobs that will be lost in the next few months if the decline in the construction industry continues,” Gatchalian explained, highlighting the potential economic consequences.
Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros inquired about measures to support affected workers.
“Ano po ang ginagawa n’yong hakbang ng Department? May plano ba silang nakahanda sa mga apektadong workers, contractors nawalan ng trabaho dahil sa pagkansela ng kanilang mga lisensiya sa ilalim ng Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board?” she asked.
Gatchalian responded that DOLE has temporary assistance programs in place and is coordinating with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for reskilling and upskilling initiatives.