MANILA, Philippines — Pedicab drivers, ambulant vendors and other tourism workers in Intramuros, Manila yesterday received over P1 million in livelihood assistance.
Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma said the beneficiaries were given P1,080,700 in livelihood assistance in the form of Negosyo sa Kariton or NegoKart.
Laguesma said the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with the Department of Tourism, pilot-tested the program in Intramuros.
“We will expand the program in other parts of Metro Manila and other tourism destinations in the country,” he said.
The DOLE allocated P15 billion for employment and livelihood programs for tourism as well as other workers, according to Laguesma.
A total of 120 pedicab drivers and ambulant vendors will receive NegoKart.
Laguesma said 42 pedicab drivers and three ambulant vendors initially received P30,000 each.
The DOLE earlier signed a memorandum of understanding with the tourism department for the provision of livelihood packages to community-based tourism organizations.