LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region, led by Regional Director Norman S. Laurio, recognized its internal and external partners on Thursday, November 21, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the Sustainable Livelihood Program’s (SLP) projects, including Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA), Executive Order No. 70 (EO 70), and the Zero Hunger Program Convergence Budgeting (ZH-PCB) in the Bicol Region.

The event not only celebrated the essential role of stakeholders but also highlighted the success stories of Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) and exemplary local government units (LGUs) that have been instrumental in supporting SLP initiatives within their communities.

In RD Laurio’s message delivered by Assistant Regional Director for Administration (ARDA) Raul Enojas, he praised the program for addressing critical livelihood needs while contributing to broader goals such as food security, peace, and inclusive development.

“Beyond economic upliftment, the SLP plays a crucial role in fostering peace-building, particularly in isolated and conflict-affected areas. We are proud to honor the incredible contributions of our partners, whose collaboration has been pivotal to our success and the foundation of our achievements,” RD Laurio stated.

These partners were essential in implementing specialized livelihood interventions, such as skills training, financial assistance, and market linkages, which addressed the unique needs of beneficiaries in conflict-vulnerable areas (CVAs) and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs).

Among the notable awardees were the LGUs of Camalig (Albay), Casiguran (Sorsogon), Uson (Masbate), Labo (Camarines Norte), San Miguel (Catanduanes), and Pasacao (Camarines Sur). These LGUs were recognized as the Best LGUs in their respective provinces for their commitment to enhancing the reach and impact of the SLP.

DSWD also acknowledged its internal partners, including the Enhanced Partnership Against Hunger and Poverty (EPAHP) and the Protective Services Division, for their technical expertise and unwavering support to field implementers.

As the ceremony concluded, DSWD reiterated its commitment to strengthening partnerships and expanding the reach of the SLP.

The DSWD SLP continues to empower communities economically by sharing impactful success stories and fostering collaborations that sustain its positive effects across the region.###