Kerwin S. Gabasa, Provincial Coordinator of SLP, emphasized that the program's primary focus is to address the root causes of communist armed conflict. Its goal is to improve the socio-economic conditions of those involved by providing access to and acquiring necessary assets for them to engage in and maintain a sustainable livelihood.
Each association received seed capital funds worth P300,000 to start their chosen livelihood projects including General Merchandise, Agrivet Supply, Chicken Production, Hog Raising, Rice Retailing, Water Refilling, Minimart, and others.
Gabasa also expressed gratitude for the convergence effort - to the provincial government headed by Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga, security sectors, and partner agencies for their support in identifying the qualified beneficiaries and monitoring the program's progress.
In her message, Governor Gonzaga encouraged the beneficiaries to utilize government assistance efficiently and strive to develop it for the betterment of the association's members.
“Atong paningkamotan nga ipaabot nila nga mitubo ang atong kwarta kay usa kini sa atong responsibilidad ug kanunay magpabilin ang tulo ka K, mao ang “Kakugi, Kaalam, ug Kahibalo” aron ang atong asosasyon mo lambo pa pag-ayu,” statement of Jonathan V. Alcala, Osmena Farmers Association President.
To date, 88 EO70 SLP associations from 2020 to 2023 have received livelihood assistance from the agency. The OPAPRU-NFA also provided one sack of rice to 34 people rescued from DDOPPO and the 1001st Brigade.
Colonel Gerry M Besana, Lieutenant Colonel Michael T Aquino, Police Captain Analou F Hormigas, PSWDO Head Josephine Frasco, and DSWD XI personnel attended the ceremony at the Capitol Lobby. (Rheafe Hortizano)