Showing posts with label DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program. Show all posts
Showing posts with label DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program. Show all posts

Thursday, March 7, 2024

Revitalizing Abaca Industry: DOLE-Caragaโ€™s P5.4M Livelihood Grant to Abaca Farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur





SOURCE: PIA CARAGA


The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Caraga has recently embarked on a transformative initiative that promises to uplift the lives of the abaca farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. This massive project involves a livelihood grant of P5.4 million distributed among 12 abaca farmer associations, setting a new chapter in the local abaca industry.


The livelihood grant, part of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), covers farm machinery and business capital among others, primarily benefiting indigenous farmers. The program is a concerted effort to enhance livelihoods by improving and hastening abaca fiber production in the town, thereby increasing yield and creating better market opportunities for the local product.


The role of the local government, the Philippine Army, and other stakeholders has been pivotal in the implementation of this program. Appreciating their efforts, the Provincial Director of DOLE - Surigao del Sur, Genebelle Bal, acknowledges their vital contribution.


Twelve abaca associations in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, have been the beneficiaries of this livelihood grant, with most of the members being indigenous people who rely on abaca farming as their primary source of livelihood.


Bonito Bocales, the Tribal Abaca Farmers Association chairperson and a tribal chieftain, expressed immense gratitude for the program implementation. The introduction of stripping machines and assistance in document preparation has brought about noticeable improvements in productivity and efficiency.


Before the distribution of machinery, each member underwent comprehensive training on financial literacy, health education, workers' basic rights, and an overview of the DILP program. Specialized training on the efficient operation of the machinery was also provided.


With the mechanical equipment, it is anticipated that the production of abaca in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur, will be more efficient and productive, leading to increased income for the abaca farmers and a boost in industry production.


The twelve abaca farmer associations given this grant include a diverse range of groups. Each association has a unique story to tell, and now, with this grant, they'll have the means to write their next chapter of productivity and growth.


The Philippines, according to the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA), is the world's largest producer of abaca fibers, supplying about 87 percent of the global requirement. From cordage and specialty papers to textiles, furniture and fixtures, handicrafts, novelty items, and industrial applications, abaca fibers have a wide range of uses.


In 2022, Caraga ranked third among the top abaca-producing regions in the country, with an estimated 10,000 metric tons of fiber production. Surigao del Sur, in particular, has reported a total of 24 abaca farmers and traders contributing to this promising industry. 


This initiative by DOLE-Caraga is a significant step towards promoting sustainable livelihoods for the abaca farmers in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur. It is a testament to the potential of concerted efforts and strategic investment to create lasting change in the lives of the local farming community and the larger abaca industry.

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