Php4M DILP assistance to benefit 250 informal workers

The Department of Labor and Employment Region 6, through its Iloilo Field Office, turned over a PHP 4,000,000 check under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program to the Iloilo City government for “sari-sari store and rice retailing” livelihood projects for 250 marginalized workers in Iloilo City.

Iloilo Field Office head Dr. Arlyn E. Siaotong and Labor and Employment Officer Dedith T. Chavez represented the regional office during the turnover ceremony at the office of Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas.

The funding will support 176 sari-sari store projects and 74 rice retailing projects, the field office said.

DOLE said the program aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s agenda of promoting sustainable development for vulnerable sectors.

The beneficiaries include four persons with disabilities and 43 senior citizens, DOLE said.

The assistance will also support the small businesses of 203 self-employed individuals with insufficient income, DOLE said.

Through the DILP assistance, beneficiaries will receive startup capital to establish or expand small businesses to generate additional income and improve their families’ economic stability.

“This symbolizes not only financial assistance but hope and opportunity for hundreds of Ilonggo families striving for a more secure and self-reliant future, “ said Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez, Jr. who directed the Iloilo Field Office to constantly monitor the projects to ensure its fruitful impact to the lives of the beneficiaries.

The DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program provides grants for livelihood and capacity-building projects, typically coursed through local government units, workers’ groups, and community organizations to help beneficiaries start or strengthen microenterprises.