THE provincial government of Misamis Occidental and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) have turned over P8.8 million in livelihood assistance funds to 34 local associations as part of the provincial administration’s Sustainable Livelilhood Program (SLP).
Gov. Henry Oaminal said the cash aid seeks to boost the livelihood activities of local groups and cooperatives based in the province.
“We want more Misamisnons to find the opportunity to expand their enterprises, and make a positive impact on their community,” Oaminal said.
Each organization, with memberships of 10 to 30, received start-up capital ranging from P100,000 to P300,000.
Oaminal said he was optimistic that the fund assistance will help reinvigorate the associations and inspire them to explore new avenues for growth and development, which could lead to increased profitability, greater market reach, and more job opportunities for residents.
He reminded the beneficiaries to use the funds wisely and make the most of the SLP to improve their lives.
“To our association beneficiaries, let us make the most out of this aid and utilize it with the progress of our members and communities in our hearts,” he said. “Let’s treat it as an instrument to help our families and fellow Misamisnons live in prosperity.”
During the check turn-over ceremony, the governor directed the establishment of a division under the Provincial Social Welfare and Development that will focus on the growth of enterprises receiving assistance from the SLP, as a part of his administration’s objective to double the province’s livelihood assistance.
Ronald Ryan Cui, DSWD Region X assistant regional director for operations, expressed hopes that the beneficiaries of the SLP would take care of their grant and use it for the intended purpose.
According to Cui, the SLP will also provide the necessary technical assistance to the 34 associations and its 661 beneficiaries as they develop their livelihood projects.
“Through all our sustained efforts, we can realize the vision and objective of the 5Ms: Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon ug Malipayon,” Cui added.
The 5Ms, which means Misamisnon live peacefully, productively, and happily, is the provincial government’s thrust led by Oaminal as a roadmap for local development projects.
