DOLE projects 2.5 million jobless due to COVID-19 pandemic

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) projects that some 2.5 million workers will be left jobless in the country because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

DOLE Sec. Silvestre Bello III said their data is based on the number of companies that have submitted applications for suspension and closure of their operations.

“As part of our COVID recovery plan, we focus on how to keep employment. We will do our best to avoid displacement. That's why we’re asking businessmen na ‘wag na muna mag-sara (we’re asking businessmen not to close),” Bello said during the Laging Handa press conference on Thursday.

Bello said his department is now focusing on maintaining employment of workers and providing livelihood for those who will be surely affected.

Bello said they will continue providing cash assistance since the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) already provided an additional P1 billion for displaced workers.