Manila – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Western Visayas has provided over PHP7.64 million in livelihood assistance to beneficiaries in the provinces of Guimaras and Iloilo. The financial support, which was released on Thursday, aims to aid 351 recipients across various communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, the beneficiaries in Iloilo include marginalized fisherfolk from Brgys. Asluman and Tinigban in Carles, and members of the Guintapagin Agrarian Reform Cooperative in Bingawan, comprising farmers, food and vegetable vendors, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens. In Guimaras, the aid targets farmers, parents of child laborers, Indigenous People, persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and women from Brgy. Millan in Sibunag town, Brgy. San Isidro in Buenavista, and Brgy. Cabano in San Lorenzo. The funds will support a variety of projects, such as sari-sari stores and cattle raising, to provide sustainable sources of income for the recipients.
In addition to the financial aid, DOLE-assisted micro, small, and medium enterprises, local farmers, and small businesses showcased their products at the Kadiwa ng Pangulo and trade fair. Notably, the Salngan Multipurpose Cooperative from Brgy. Salngan in Oton, Iloilo, participated in the event. The cooperative, which has been operating for 20 years and consists of 37 handloom weavers, received PHP1 million from DOLE for additional capital to enhance their operations.
Furthermore, DOLE, in collaboration with local firms and recruitment agencies, facilitated the availability of 3,404 job opportunities in various sectors. Government agencies also provided assistance desks for clearances, Philippine National ID System registration, tax identification numbers, and memberships with the Home Mutual Development Fund and the Social Security System.