Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), has rolled out a significant employment program designed to benefit 200 residents across the towns of Roseller T. Lim and Titay in Zamboanga Sibugay province.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE-Zamboanga Peninsula Director Albert Gutib announced that the beneficiaries, identified from the aforementioned towns, will participate in Project Local Adaptation to Water Access and Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished (LAWA at BINHI). This flagship initiative by the DSWD aims to foster climate resilience and bolster food security within the community.
The beneficiaries recently underwent an orientation session facilitated by officials from DOLE and DSWD to prepare for their 20-day employment period under the project. During this time, they will engage in activities such as establishing and maintaining vegetable gardens in their respective barangays, which includes preparing planting areas, cultivating vegetables, and caring for crops. These efforts are anticipated to enhance the availability of fresh vegetables within the communities involved.
In addition to providing immediate employment, the program offers practical training in planting and crop maintenance. This knowledge can be applied personally by the beneficiaries in their households and shared with other community members, thus promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Each participant will earn a daily wage of PHP464, aligning with the prevailing minimum wage in the Zamboanga Peninsula. Over the course of the 20-day period, beneficiaries who complete their work will receive a total of PHP9,280. The total wages for all 200 beneficiaries could reach PHP1.856 million, contingent upon verification of attendance and completed workdays.
In a move to ensure the safety and well-being of the workers, the beneficiaries will also be enrolled in Group Personal Accident Insurance through the Government Service Insurance System. This will afford them additional protection as they carry out their responsibilities.
Project LAWA at BINHI not only provides short-term income assistance but also addresses critical community needs such as limited water access and food supply. The LAWA component focuses on the construction of small farm reservoirs, water-harvesting facilities, and the repair of local irrigation systems. Meanwhile, the BINHI aspect emphasizes the establishment of community and household vegetable gardens using climate-smart, locally appropriate farming practices.
