BICOL, PHILIPPINES – At the core of Casiguran, Sorsogon’s transformative journey in livelihood development is its Local Government Unit (LGU). Recognized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) as the Best LGU for the province of Sorsogon, Casiguran’s strategic initiatives have set a powerful example for empowering communities.

Despite being a fourth-class municipality with limited resources, Casiguran has successfully tackled its challenges through its flagship initiative, the Angat Kabuhayan Program. This program integrates seamlessly with the SLP, showcasing the power of collaboration and strategic focus in fostering sustainable livelihoods.

Angat Kabuhayan: Strengthening Local Livelihoods

The Angat Kabuhayan Program, one of Casiguran’s 14 flagship initiatives, aligns closely with the SLP’s objectives, particularly in uplifting the agricultural sector—a key livelihood for many Casiguran families. The program provides vital agricultural inputs, technical training, and capacity-building activities that help farmers and fisherfolk optimize their productivity.

In addition to supporting agriculture, the LGU has expanded the reach of the SLP to marginalized sectors, including women, youth, and conflict-affected communities. By channeling SLP seed capital into targeted projects, the program has significantly improved the socio-economic conditions of families throughout the municipality.

Collaboration: The Key to Success

Central to Casiguran’s success is its collaborative approach. The LGU works closely with various local departments to ensure the effective implementation of SLP projects. Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Editha Huet emphasized the program’s role in reintegrating conflict-vulnerable areas.

“Lubos po ang aming pasasalamat sa SLP, lalo na sa kanilang mga proyekto tulad ng PAMANA at EO70. Malaki ang naitulong nito sa pagbibigay sigla sa mga lugar na dati’y napakaraming [friends rescued],” Huet shared.

Municipal Agriculturist Benigno Bejison echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s positive impact on communities affected by insurgencies.

“Napakahalaga ng programang ito ng DSWD upang maibalik ang kabuhayan sa mga komunidad na minsan nang naapektuhan ng maling ideolohiya. Malaking tulong ito sa aming mga magsasaka.”

The LGU’s partnership with DSWD ensures that projects are tailored to the unique needs of the community, with every peso spent yielding tangible, lasting outcomes.

A Hands-On and Community-Driven Approach

Unlike many municipalities limited by manpower and expertise, Casiguran has invested in a skilled team to help SLP field workers implement livelihood programs effectively. Local staff undergo continuous training, ensuring they can address the community’s needs in a comprehensive and adaptive manner.

Equally important is the LGU’s inclusive approach to planning and decision-making. By involving residents in these processes, the municipality ensures that livelihood initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of its constituents.

Impact Beyond Numbers

The results of Casiguran’s efforts extend far beyond statistics. Families in conflict-vulnerable areas now have stable sources of income, while youth and women are meaningfully contributing to their households and communities. More significantly, the program has revived hope and fostered unity across the municipality.

Mayor Maria Minez Hamor aptly summarized the LGU’s vision: “Despite our limitations, our collective efforts show that even a small municipality like Casiguran can achieve great things. Kasama ang DSWD, sama-sama tayo para sa patuloy na pagsulong at pagsidlak sa bayan ng Casiguran.”

A Model for Progress

Casiguran’s innovative and collaborative approach through the Angat Kabuhayan Program serves as a testament to how even the smallest municipalities can drive meaningful change. Its partnership with the SLP stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with the right strategy and commitment, challenges can transform into opportunities.

Indeed, Casiguran’s support for the DSWD Bicol’s SLP is not just about fostering livelihoods; it is about building a future founded on resilience, inclusivity, and progress.###