In a significant boost to local economies, six associations across two municipalities in southern Negros Occidental have launched various livelihood projects this February, supported by the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). The Bantayan SLP Workers Association in Kabankalan City has initiated an electronic payment service project, funded with a seed capital of PHP300,000 from the program. This initiative, in collaboration with Rizal Commercial Banking Corp, aims to enhance transaction efficiency, accessibility, and security within the community. Ramil Raquit, the SLP provincial coordinator for Negros Occidental, has urged the association to maintain unity and expand their service reach to further improve their livelihoods. Meanwhile, in Hinigaran town, five other projects have been rolled out, including a general merchandise store by the Hinigaran Persons with Disability Vendors Association and a rice retailing project by the Hinigaran Women’s Agripreneur Association, both located in Barangay Paticui. Additional projects include rice retailing by the Alliance of the Hinigaran Gays Association in Barangay Tagda, carwash services by the Alliance of Hinigaran Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association Federated Association in Barangay 3, and a retail and wholesale venture for fresh produce and fish by the Hinigaran Market Vendors Association in Barangay IV. These initiatives are designed to meet basic community needs, generate sustainable income, and enhance the quality of life for participants. The SLP continues to empower poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities by providing essential support and resources to foster thriving livelihoods.
