January 15, Laguna — The National Irrigation Administration-Laguna Rizal Irrigation Management Office (NIA-LRIMO), in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), awarded a total of Php 450,000 in Seed Capital Fund (SCF) to 30 beneficiaries of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in the municipalities of Victoria and Bay, Laguna.
The SCF serves as start-up capital for SLP associations to launch livelihood projects aimed at generating additional income and improving financial stability.
DSWD Region IV-A Regional Executive Assistant Vince B. Villaroel highlighted the significant role of farmers in national economic growth and food security. “Isang napakahalagang araw ito dahil kayo [magsasala] ang bida. Ang inyong hindi matatawarang kontribusyon sa ekonomiya at sa bansa”, he said.
SLP National Program Manager Ms. Miramel G. Laxa described the program as a capability-building initiative designed to uplift poor, vulnerable, and marginalized communities. She urged SLP associations to embrace collaboration and stay open to various government programs for sustainable development. “Rest assured na ang DSWD ay aalalay hanggang sa aming makakaya”, she said.
SLP Association Presidents Ms. Amelia Arcega of Bay and Mr. Leonardo Lospe, Jr. of Victoria expressed their gratitude for being chosen as program beneficiaries. “Hindi lang kami magsasaka, gusto din naming maging bahagi ng mga negosyanteng magsasaka”.
The awarding ceremony was led by NIA LRIMO Division Manager Engr. Fidel P. Martinez, NIA IV-A Operations Chief Engr. Carlos M. dela Cruz, and DSWD SLP National Program Manager Ms. Miramel G. Laxa. The event was attended by officials from NIA IV-A, NIA LRIMO, DSWD Region IV-A, and the farmer-beneficiaries of the SCF-SLP. | T. Silvania