Surigao city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Caraga Region (DSWD-13) has distributed PHP5.2 million to various associations in the area as part of its initiative to support sustainable livelihoods. The distribution occurred during a series of activities last week, aimed at empowering community groups.
According to Philippines News Agency, the funding release is part of DSWD's Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), which focuses on establishing sustainable income sources for local groups, enhancing their capacity for self-reliance and improving their quality of life. The program aims to support associations by providing them with the necessary capital.
A total of 12 SLP associations from Surigao City, San Benito, Claver in Surigao del Norte, and San Jose in Dinagat Islands have benefited from this funding. In Surigao City, nine SLP groups received PHP3.75 million in capitalization. Additionally, one group in San Benito received PHP420,000, and another in Claver received PHP45,000.
In Dinagat Islands, the Reservist Matinabangon SLP Association was granted PHP600,000 to support their livelihood activities. This financial support is intended to facilitate the development of various projects and improve economic stability in the region.
Meanwhile, the city government of Surigao expressed its gratitude for the DSWD-13's support. The city information office stated that the grant would help 229 members from different barangays to initiate or expand projects, including marine and food processing, egg production, and retailing, all of which are crucial for the local economy.