Jamindan: The Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) has disbursed PHP2 million in seed capital to aid seven livelihood associations in Jamindan, Capiz, as they initiate their selected business ventures.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized that the DSWD remains committed to supporting the Marcos administration's efforts to improve the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable, disadvantaged, and marginalized communities. This commitment is reflected in the provision of livelihood grants, which aim to assist Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) in establishing their businesses or enterprises.

The DSWD spokesperson noted that six of the seven SLPAs are part of the PAyapa at MAsaganang PamayaNAn (PAMANA) program. This peace-building initiative provides relevant programs and interventions in conflict-affected and vulnerable areas. Each of these six PAMANA SLPAs received PHP300,000, benefiting the Agbun-od PAMANA-SLP Association, Agloloway PAMANA-SLP Association, Jaena Sur PAMANA-SLP Association, Jaena Norte PAMANA-SLP Association, San Juan PAMANA-SLP Association, and the Ganzon PAMANA-SLP Association.

In contrast, the Jaebat SLP Association, a regular SLPA, was granted PHP280,000 to jumpstart their business endeavors. The livelihood fund is intended to serve as start-up capital, enabling local entrepreneurs to acquire raw materials, tools, or equipment essential for the development of their respective ventures.

The SLP is structured as a capability-building program that aims to elevate the socio-economic status of its participants through two primary tracks. The Micro-enterprise Development (MD) Track is tailored for those looking to establish sustainable micro-enterprises, while the Employment Facilitation (EF) Track is designed to help participants secure jobs that align with their skills and competencies.

This initiative forms a core part of the DSWD's development strategy, focusing on providing livelihood opportunities to qualified vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors in the Philippines.