Dinagat islands: Six community associations in Dinagat Islands have been granted more than PHP3.6 million in livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) between July and August, aimed at strengthening poultry and egg production enterprises and benefiting 139 members.

According to Philippines News Agency, the support was strategically provided to associations in Libjo, Tubajon, and Dinagat to expand their ventures in poultry and egg production. DOLE - Dinagat Islands announced in a statement that in July, four associations from various towns received PHP402,429 each in the form of ready-to-lay chickens and feeds. In August, two additional associations were awarded PHP1 million each to further develop their poultry and egg production capacities.

The associations were endorsed by the Department of Agriculture's Special Area for Agricultural Development program, as highlighted by John Riche Tangpos, head of the provincial labor office. Tangpos also disclosed that further distributions of livelihood assistance are planned for other associations within the province. He emphasized that their office supports associations recognized by partner agencies and registered with DOLE, with proposals undergoing rigorous assessment and validation before they are approved.

Among the recipients this month is the Do±a Helene Sewing Women's Association (DOHSWA) in Tubajon. DOHSWA chairperson Rocelie Estor expressed appreciation for the program, noting its significant impact in providing additional income for members through such livelihood projects. She conveyed gratitude to the government for supporting families during challenging times.

Felimon Cape, chairperson of the Justiniana Edera Livestock Growers Association in Dinagat, mentioned that their initiative will further aid the government's food security efforts by supplying eggs to the local market.