LEGAZPI CITY: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5), through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), has awarded seed capital to two associations for their food-related projects in Sorsogon province, an official said on Friday.
In a phone interview, Jastine Joy Dichoso Escuro, DSWD-Bicol project development officer for SLP, said their agency awarded nearly PHP1 million to the SLP associations on Thursday for their proposed livelihood projects.
She said the awarding of PHP450,000 each to the two SLP associations (SLPAs) was conducted during the “Lab For All” caravan led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, which promotes sustainable economic development in the region.
The First Lady awarded the seed capital to the Sto. Niño Rice Retailers SLPA of Sorsogon City, and Rice and Feeds Sta. Cruz SLPA of Casiguran town.
“These funds will help jumpstart their livelihood projects and enhance the economic stability of more than 60 members,” she said.
Escuro said the SLP is a capabilit
y-building program of the DSWD to improve the abilities of people experiencing poverty to advance in life by providing them with appropriate assistance.
Arlin Payte, president of Sto. Niño Rice Retailers SLPA, thanked the agency for the opportunity given to them.
‘Thank you very much to the DSWD SLP for helping us start a new business. This is a great help to our livelihood, and we are given a job that will help our families. We really value this blessing, and we will work hard to make it sustainable and develop it more,’ she said.
Another SLP group showcased a variety of non-food and food products produced by the association, highlighted the diverse entrepreneurial efforts of the SLP beneficiaries, and showed the program’s positive impact on local economic development.
DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio affirmed the agency’s commitment to helping SLPA members achieve a sustainable source of income.
‘We are thrilled to be part of this significant event led by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos. The
caravan provided a venue for our SLPAs to showcase their products. Our collaboration aims to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities and promote economic self-sufficiency among our beneficiaries,’ he said.
The Lab For All Caravan, an initiative led by the First Lady, brings essential services such as health, education, and livelihood directly to communities, ensuring that the benefits of government programs reach those who need them most.
Source: Philippines News agency
