The Department of Labor and Employment IX (DOLE9) thru its Zamboanga Ciy Field Office released livelihood starter kits amounting to Php 520,000.00 to 43 Yakan families composed of over 100 beneficiaries during the Turn-Over of Livelihood Enhancement & Improvement of Production and Marketing Center.

DOLE’s assistance forms part of the project which was in partnership with the 1st Congressional District Office of Zamboanga City under Congressman Celso L. Lobregat and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) where aside from starter kits, more workable livelihood facilities were also turned over such as the construction of the production areas, marketing center and fencing of the Yakan Village.

Regional Director Ofelia B. Domingo joined Congressman Lobregat, DTI Provincial Director Ceferino Rubio, DOT 9 Director Butz Blanco and officials of Brgy. Upper Calarian during the official turn-over on December 20, 2017 at the Yakkan Village, Upper Calarian, Zamboanga City.

Director Domingo shared that the Kabuhayan Starter Kits Project falls under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program (DILEEP) that aims to provide assistance to the informal sector or marginalized self-employed workers with insufficient income. The program is a form of DOLE intervention that seeks to contribute to poverty reduction through promotion of entrepreneurship and community enterprises.

She also added that the starter kits composed of weaving equipment and materials such as motored sewing machines, sewing kits, electric fans and a unit of computer set for the weaver’s organization.

Yakan Village Tribal Leader Sergio Ilul expressed his heartfelt thanks to the people behind the project as this will provide more opportunities for the members of their community. Adding that through the facilities and equipment provided, they will be able to produce more products and sustain their livelihood in the long run.

KAREN CLAIRE Q. GRAFIA
LIO-Designate