BICOL REGION, PHILIPPINES – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region has strengthened economic sustainability and food security in Bicol by awarding PHP 3,271,444.00 in seed capital funds (SCF) to Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) across Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, and Albay.

This financial support, delivered through a ceremonial check turnover attended by local officials, will foster the development of various livelihood projects designed to enhance economic resilience and improve food security.

A total of 16 SLPAs, representing over 200 individual members, will now be able to expand income-generating ventures focused on accessible, nutritious food sources. These initiatives range from rice retailing and vegetable farming to poultry raising and crab fattening. The community-driven projects aim not only to provide affordable food options but also to equip local residents with sustainable incomes—aligning with DSWD’s commitment to reducing food insecurity and poverty.

In Camarines Sur, the Angat Buhay Genorangan Livelihood Association was granted PHP 180,000 for rice retailing, improving food access and affordability. The Tubog SLP Association in Catanduanes received PHP 330,000 for a crab fattening project, supporting economic growth and sustainable seafood production. Meanwhile, the Aroyao and Rocky Wings SLPAs were awarded PHP 360,000 and PHP 225,000, respectively, for vegetable farming and poultry raising, diversifying local food sources.

In Camarines Norte, associations from Mercedes and Vinzons will implement projects in rice retailing, fish production, and general merchandise, with funding ranging from PHP 96,444 to PHP 260,000. These investments aim to stabilize rice availability and ensure that essential commodities remain accessible to the communities.

Albay’s SLP-organized associations also received SCF ranging from PHP 120,000 to PHP 180,000 each for food production initiatives, while the Andresian SLPA was granted PHP 300,000 for vegetable and frozen goods production.

By investing in locally-driven, sustainable livelihood projects, DSWD Bicol reaffirms its commitment to building food-secure and economically resilient communities. Through its Sustainable Livelihood Program, DSWD not only enhances economic stability but also ensures that families have reliable access to nutritious food, contributing to the region’s overall growth and stability.###