PAGADIAN CITY, ZDS – With the aim to enhance sustainable livelihood and agricultural progress, the Department of Labor and Employment Zamboanga del Sur Field Office (DOLE-ZDSFO) in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Kumalarang (LGU-Kumalarang) distributed farming and fishing starter kits to 102 farmers and fisherfolks in Kumalarang, Zamboanga del Sur during the LGU-PESO Kumalarang Farmers and Fisherfolks Summit 2023 with a theme:” “Unleashing the Transformative Power of Culture to Effect Sustainable Livelihood, Progress, and Development in Kumalarang”, in line with the celebration of the 64th Founding Anniversary of Kumalarang, on August 4, 2023, at the Municipal Gymnasium of the said municipality.

During the event, Kumalarang Mayor Ruel Molina extended words of commendation to DOLE9 Regional Director Albert E. Gutib for his unwavering support and dedication in furthering the welfare of the people of Kumalarang. The commendation recognized RD Gutib’s and DOLE 9’s instrumental role in facilitating employment services and implementing various programs such as TUPAD, SPES, GIP, and Livelihood assistance, all of which have significantly contributed to the socio-economic growth of the municipality.

The event was graced by several other national government agencies (NGAs) dedicated to the well-being of fisherfolks and farmers, including the Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, and Department of Trade and Industry. These agencies showcased their programs and services aimed at fostering the prosperity of these vital sectors.

DOLE-ZDSFO Head Miraflor J. Casanes, represented RD Gutib during the event and conveyed his message. In her message, she extended DOLE 9’s warmest congratulations to the local government for consistently implementing DOLE’s impactful programs and services, which have significantly improved the lives of the constituents. She highlighted the pivotal role played by farmers and fisherfolks in ensuring food security and sustainability. She further emphasized their contribution in uplifting livelihoods, encouraging younger generations to engage in farming and fishing, fostering job creation, promoting agri-tourism, and forging meaningful connections within communities.

Further, DOLE-ZDSFO and LGU Kumalarang jointly handed over farming starter kits and ‘bancas’ to 102 beneficiaries worth Php 3,060,000.00 pesos, a step towards fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of farmers and fisherfolks in Kumalarang. The turnover ceremony was graced by Municipal Vice Mayor Pinky P. Molina, SB Members, Barangay Captains led by ABC President Hon. Romy Molina, and PESO Manager Nazer Dacula.

RD Gutib said that this collaborative effort between DOLE and LGU-Kumalarang stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment to uplift the agricultural sector and enhance the lives of the hardworking farmers and fisherfolks. Through such initiatives, the foundations for a prosperous and sustainable future are being firmly laid, advancing Kumalarang towards progress and development. END/with reports from FPHatab, ZDSFO. edt:mtr.