Joy: Bebot “shortchanged” cash-for-work recipients

CEBU, Philippines - Re-electionist Cebu City south district Representative Rodrigo “Bebot” Abellanosa is being accused of shortchanging those under the Department of Labor and Employment’s Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) cash-for-work program.

TUPAD is a component of the DOLE Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program, or DILEEP.

Former city councilor Jocelyn Pesquera, who is seeking her old post in the May 9 elections, said they learned that instead of working for a month, a book leader was made to do survey for a day, and instead of receiving P3,500 reflected in the payroll, the person was given just P1,000.

Pesquera said it was the office of Abellanosa that handled the recruitment of the TUPAD workers while DOLE prepared the payroll.

“It is based on the statement sa among leader sa barangay.  In fact, naa say barangay mao say nahitabo nga ila sang gipa-survey, one day survey and then ila gipasweldoan og P1,000 unya anggipirma sa payroll kay P3,500,” she said.

Sought for his side, Abellanosa told The FREEMAN the allegation “very stupid” as it comes from a “desperate” Team Rama candidate.

“Klaroha ana nga bakak ni Pesquera. I challenge Atty. Joy Pesquera to sign an affidavit accusing me of such misdeed. Dili na motuo ang mga tawo sa black propaganda sa Team Rama,” he said.

Abellanosa said his office could not have used the TUPAD program for his personal purpose because the funds go directly to the beneficiaries, who are determined by DOLE.

“On the other hand, don’t they exploit City Hall as well as barangay personnel and resources in their political activities?” he fired back.

He said the people could see how Team Rama allegedly abuses the use of Kaohsiung buses and barangay vehicles in mobilizing their supporters and also how its people use City Hall funds, packed meals, and personnel in their campaign activities.

He also said Team Rama filled up hundreds of job order positions that were not supported with a budget but the workers have rendered political work for Team Rama.

“They promised their salaries and casual positions after Mike Rama wins (again as mayor). Kung dili makadaug? Tabla? Dakong ilad ni kung tinuod man gani ni,” Abellanosa said. — (FREEMAN)