The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XI (DSWD FO XI), through its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and its Enhanced Support Services Intervention (ESSI) strategy, has implemented a series of projects benefiting the fishing communities of Barangay Mabila and Barangay Tucal in Sarangani, Davao Occidental, commonly known as Balut Island. These projects aim to sustain and support their livelihoods.

Fishing has long been the primary source of income for the residents of these communities. However, many have struggled due to a lack of proper equipment, forcing them to rely on meager catches that barely meet their families’ needs.

Recognizing this challenge, the 4Ps-ESSI project has stepped in to provide the villagers with cash grants to purchase essential fishing equipment, including nets, bait, and fishing lines, to improve their catch yields and overall livelihood.

One beneficiary expressed his immense gratitude for the livelihood project. “Nagamit jud namo (materiales para sa livelihood project). Nakaincome ug nakabawi na dayon mi. Nakapalit na sab mi dungag pukot ug bangka. Dako among pasalamat kay naka-abaga jud siya sa galastuan sa mga estudyante. (We were able to use the materials for our livelihood project. We earned income and recovered quickly. We even bought additional nets and a boat. We are very grateful because it truly helped with our children’s education expenses.)” the beneficiary shared.

As someone living in the Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA), it is hard for the said beneficiary and other fisherfolk to find other means of living, especially when they are residing near the shorelines and far from other resources. 

The ESSI project in Sarangani uplifted them by opting to employ targeted interventions that addressed the specific needs of vulnerable communities. By empowering beneficiaries with the resources and skills necessary for sustainable livelihood development, the project is not only improving their economic stability but also fostering stronger, more interconnected communities. 

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