Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte (May 15, 2024) – The recent committee hearing in Santo Tomas, Davao del Norte where the partnership between the Municipal Local Government Unit of Santo Tomas and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI on the implementation of the Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) at BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished), marked a significant step forward in the implementation of the said project, as key representatives from the DSWD Field Office XI and the Municipal Local Government Unit (MLGU) of Santo Tomas came together to finalize crucial agreements for its full-blown implementation.

Karen C. Gayonan, the Risk Resiliency Program (RRP) Focal of DSWD XI, alongside Luigi C. Garzon and John Vergil T. Salido, RRP Focal Persons in Davao del Norte, presented the draft of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) which will guide the legislative body of the MLGU Santo Tomas to pass the resolution authorizing Hon. Roland S. Dejesica, the Municipal Mayor, to enter into a MOA with DSWD Field Office XI for the full-blown implementation of Project LAWA at BINHI.

The attendance of Project LAWA at BINHI staff at this hearing was pivotal in preparing both parties for the project’s implementation in the municipality. The MOA outlines the collaboration between the municipality and DSWD Field Office XI for the Risk Resiliency Program through Cash-For-Training and Cash-For-Work initiatives under Project LAWA at BINHI.

Gayonan highlighted the project’s sustainability and monitoring mechanisms, emphasizing the importance of a strong partnership commitment between DSWD XI and local government units (LGUs) to ensure long-term success. She also noted that 300 partner beneficiaries would participate in the program through Cash-For-Training and Work (RRP-CFTW).

The comprehensive plan for Project LAWA at BINHI aims to empower the community and promote sustainable livelihoods in Santo Tomas, addressing the long-term impacts of climate change in collaboration with LGUs. The detailed presentation at the committee hearing underscored the project’s objectives and laid the groundwork for effective implementation and sustainability.

By attending the committee hearing, the staff of Project LAWA at BINHI and local officials have set a clear path forward, ensuring that all necessary agreements are in place and both parties are well-prepared for the successful rollout of the project. (DSWD FO XI/RSD)

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