18 Dec 2025

Government has approved the transformation of the Ipelegeng Programme into Ikageng Public Works Programme (IPWP).

Under the newly structured programme, there will be a transition from a welfare-based relief initiative to a modern, structured, skills-driven and productivity-focused national public works programme, with wages revised to P2 500, to be paid under a sustainable performance-based remuneration system.

According to a press release from Ministry of Local Government and Traditional Affairs, the redesigned programme marks a shift in the country’s approach to community development, social protection and inclusive economic development.

“The transformation introduces key reforms outlined in the Cabinet-approved Transformation Strategy Document. Central among these is the adoption of a performance-based model, replacing the traditional time-based system with a results-oriented framework,” the release says. The release states that the programme aims to enable beneficiaries to graduate into sustainable livelihoods by reducing long-term dependency on government relief through skills development, enterprise support and practical on-site training.

In the new programme, beneficiaries will operate under performance contracts that link remuneration to measurable outputs, productivity and quality standards, thereby supporting government’s objective of improving wages sustainably while enhancing value for public expenditure.

Beneficiaries will access technical and vocational education and training aligned with labour market needs and the national TVET policy.

“The skills component, piloted in 2022, will be expanded through partnerships with vocational institutions, brigades, the private sector and other stakeholders to support employment, self-employment and enterprise development,” the release says.

The programme, the release says, will also prioritise community-led project identification to ensure alignment with local development needs as beneficiaries will participate in productive sectors such as agriculture (crop and animal production, aquaculture and apiculture), tourism through cultural and heritage development, manufacturing, environmental conservation and other community-based economic activities that stimulate local economies.

Additionally, government has approved a strengthened institutional and governance framework to improve oversight, supervision and delivery efficiency.

According to the release, implementation will be coordinated by local authorities, supported by enhanced monitoring tools, clear performance targets, digital platforms and strategic partnerships with the private sector and civil society.

Programme implementation will commence with virtual engagement of district structures, dissemination of the approved programme document, and presentation of draft implementation guidelines to stakeholders and beneficiaries, scheduled for January 26-27. ENDS