STA. MARIA, Davao Occidental (DSWD XI) –Sta. Maria town is blessed anew after 16 of its livelihood associations recently received a Php 6,520,000.00 million Seed Capital Fund through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The assistance was turned over to association presidents by DSWD officials led by Assistant Regional Director for Operations Rebecca A. Santamaria.

Municipal Mayor Rudy P. Mariscal welcomed the economic opportunity provided to his constituents.

Each association received an amount not lesser than Php 300,000.00.

“Kini usa ka kamatuoran nga ang kwarta nga gagikan sa mga tao, ang mga tao gihapon ang makapahimulos (This is a proof that the money of the people benefits the people themselves),” ARD Santamaria said in her message to the participants and municipal officials present during the launch. “Kay ang tumong sa among departamento mao ang mu-serbisyo, mu-alalay, ug mutabang sa atong mga Pantawid nga mga benepisyaryo (Because the department aims to serve, to guide, and to help our Pantawid beneficiaries).”

“Dako kaayo among pasalamat nga kami usab nabubuan og grasya gikan sa panggamhanan. Kini usa ka dakong hagit sa atong mga benepisyaryo nga palamboon pa ang maong kantidad sa kwarta (We are very thankful that we are included as recipients of blessings from government. This is a big challenge to our beneficiaries to make good use and boost the capital they have received),” Jospehine Mariscal, Municipal Administrator, said.

The Sustainable Livelihood Program aims to enhance the capabilities of poor Filipino households and individuals by strengthening their skills, competencies, abilities and resources in accessing income-generating opportunities to help improve their socio-economic well-being. (DSWD)