Vintar: A total of 160 low-income or seasonal workers from Ilocos Norte are set to enhance their earnings, thanks to a PHP4.3-million livelihood aid from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE Ilocos Norte chief Janelyn Martin confirmed this development after the ceremonial awarding of PHP4.32 million worth of livelihood packages aimed at improving the lives of selected marginalized workers.

In Vintar town, 47 members of the Pallas Valley Farmers Association received rice retailing and agricultural supplies valued at PHP999,276. This initiative was part of a DOLE-assisted livelihood project implemented with the municipal government as a co-partner. Meanwhile, the local government unit of Bacarra identified 112 beneficiaries for a DOLE-assisted project worth PHP3.28 million.

"We hope that through these livelihood aids, we will be able to help workers, especially those with low income or no jobs, to start a small business so they can earn better or have a more stable income," Martin stated.

Among the beneficiaries of DOLE's livelihood assistance is Rewelyn dela Cruz, a solo parent. Dela Cruz expressed her gratitude, saying, "I am so happy that I am one of the lucky beneficiaries of a sari-sari store with a frozen foods vending machine from DOLE." She shared her personal story of becoming a solo parent after her husband passed away from a heart attack when she was seven months pregnant.

Dela Cruz is also supported by the Population Commission (POPCOM), which identified her child as one of the five 100 millionth babies in the region in 2015. This recognition guaranteed her child education and health support. Each year, her daughter, Princess Coleen, receives birthday gifts such as school supplies, shoes, bags, and vitamins from POPCOM and other government agencies, including PhilHealth, Department of Health, National Nutrition Council, Department of Education, and the Philippine Statistics Authority.