Cotabato workers and their families gained new opportunities to rebuild and expand their small businesses after receiving livelihood starter kits from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region XII under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) this month.
The PHP 2.68 million worth of income support covered 81 beneficiaries, including 50 parents of child laborers, 30 self-employed workers with insufficient income, and a person with a disability. The assistance provided them with the means to start or expand their small businesses, which included printing services, photography and videography studios, carinderias, barbershops, and carwash services.
Reaching seven municipalities, including Antipas, Kidapawan, Magpet, Makilala, Matalam, Midsayap, and Tulunan, the initiative reflects the DOLE’s commitment to serving geographically diverse communities and easing the struggles of disadvantaged families, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of a more inclusive and accessible government support.
The distribution was facilitated in partnership with the Makilala Transport Cooperative as Accredited Co-Partner, and in coordination with local governments and Public Employment Service Offices in Matalam, Magpet, and Kidapawan City.
DILP Focal Person Zarah Louise Mahinay, and Engr. Jayson Aro of DOLE Cotabato Field Office led the activity, alongside PESO managers Sherwin Ucab, Rhea Alcueba, Herminia Infanta, Daisy Amena, and MATRANSCO officers Chairman Melchor Llupor and Manager Daisy Esconde to ensure the smooth turnover of kits to the beneficiaries.
DOLE’s Kabuhayan Program, also known as DILP, continues to support disadvantaged workers in starting or expanding small businesses to help improve their lives, as well as those of their families.
