COLLABORATION. In a significant move to uplift the lives of Filipinos, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. inked a memorandum of understanding at the DA Central Office in Quezon City on December 6, 2024. This partnership aims to amplify the impact of key government programs, promising better opportunities for more beneficiaries. (Photo courtesy of DA)
MANILA – In a concerted effort to improve the economic conditions of Filipinos, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) have solidified their collaboration. The agreement, signed on Friday, focuses on enhancing the DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), popularly known as the “Kabuhayan” program, and the DA’s Kadiwa Store initiative.
Labor Secretary Laguesma emphasized that the strengthened alliance with the DA will significantly boost the visibility and effectiveness of the Kadiwa ng Pangulo stores. This initiative is designed to provide DILP beneficiaries with new avenues to enhance their livelihoods and support their families. The Kadiwa project not only boosts the income of small farmers but also broadens market access for its beneficiaries and offers affordable, fresh agricultural and fishery products to urban dwellers.
The project also aims to stabilize prices and ensure a consistent supply of essential goods. Meanwhile, the DILP offers crucial support to vulnerable workers through grants of up to PHP50,000 for individuals and up to PHP3 million for groups, aiding them in starting or expanding their businesses. Under the new MOU, DOLE will play a pivotal role in identifying and referring DILP beneficiaries, including associations and labor unions, for group livelihood projects.
DOLE’s involvement extends to assisting with the establishment and management of Kadiwa stores, including coordinating with suppliers and handling logistics. Agriculture Secretary Laurel highlighted that this partnership reflects a mutual commitment to fostering sustainable livelihoods and enhancing the quality of life for Filipinos, particularly farmers, fishermen, workers, and consumers.