Manila: The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has strengthened coastal livelihood opportunities in General MacArthur town in Eastern Samar by rolling out a PHP836,884 seaweed-farming project for a local farmers' group on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, DOLE Eastern Samar field office officer-in-charge Salvacion Yepez stated that the project will help farmers sustain their livelihoods while contributing to food security and local economic development. Yepez emphasized the initiative's role in enhancing the capacity of local farmers to maintain their livelihood while supporting food security and economic growth.

Implemented through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, the initiative was awarded to the Vigan Integrated Farmers Association Inc. (VIFA) in the town. Dubbed 'Sustainable Seaweed Farming: A Community Livelihood Demo Project,' the program aims to boost the local seaweed industry by equipping beneficiaries with essential materials, tools, and equipment.

The project's equipment support includes motorized and wooden paddle bancas to enhance cultivation, harvesting, and overall productivity. During Tuesday's turnover ceremony, VIFA members also showcased their value-added products, including seaweed noodles in original and malunggay variants, highlighting efforts to diversify income sources and promote innovation in seaweed-based products.

VIFA president Teresita Cabondocan expressed gratitude to DOLE for the timely assistance, noting that it arrived at the start of the seaweed farming season. She assured that the group will maximize and sustain the support to ensure long-term benefits for its members.

The project aligns with DOLE's mandate to promote inclusive growth and climate-resilient livelihoods by improving farming practices and managing marine resources responsibly in coastal communities.