DOLE distributes Negokarts for Pagkaing Oragon in Pasacao

PASACAO, Camarines Sur --- In a heartening development, Shirlyn A. Banaag, a resilient 47-year-old from Sta. Rosa del Sur, Pasacao, was awarded a nego-kart by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Bicol as part of the Pagkaing Oragon sa Daungan Livelihood Project, along with nine other beneficiaries earlier today in Pasacao, Camarines Sur.

Mrs. Banaag, a food vendor who temporarily halted her cooking activities due to surgery, shared her story in a recent interview. "Stop lang po ako magluto nung naoperahan ako. Ngunit ngunian, padikit-dikit na po ako na balik sa pagluto dahil nadagdagan na po ang pinagkakakitaan ko, (I just stopped cooking when I underwent a surgery. But now, I'm gradually getting back into cooking because my income has increased)," she recounted.

Despite facing health challenges, Mrs. Banaag is determined to return to her passion for cooking, which not only sustains her financially but has also enabled her to support her children. Her story stands as a testament to resilience and the positive impact of livelihood initiatives on individuals overcoming adversity.

The Pagkaing Oragon sa Daungan project not only provides economic opportunities but also becomes a source of inspiration for those like Mrs. Banaag, eager to rebuild their lives through the joy of cooking.

Meanwhile, in a significant move towards empowering self-employed, vulnerable, and marginalized individuals, at least ten (10) nego-karts amounting to nearly P300,000.00 were distributed to deserving beneficiaries today at StrEAT Park in Sta. Rosa del Norte and the Port Management Unit at San Cirilo in Pasacao, Camarines Sur.

The initiative is part of the Pagkaing Oragon sa Daungan Livelihood Project, aiming to transform street food vending into a safe, affordable, and accessible culinary experience – introducing "The Happy Lane!"

Regional Director Ma. Zenaida A. Angara-Campita stated that DOLE is rooted in prioritizing the needs of the beneficiaries, ensuring that the selection process is tailored to their requirements. The provision of fixed carts for Pagkaing Oragon underscores the commitment to stability and longevity in their entrepreneurial journey.

"We are dedicated to upholding standards of cleanliness and affordability, fost ering an environment of excellence in every aspect. Beyond the initial three yea rs of successful operation, we may extend additional support to sustain and amp lify the impact of these livelihood ventures. Furthermore, our commitment exte nds to providing assistance for those who demonstrate significant progress." RD Campita stressed.

She added: "It is heartening to witness the gratitude expressed by beneficiaries, such as the commitment shared by one individual focused on nurturing and advancing Pasa cao through affordable and tasty treats. Their dedication to caring for and imp roving their carts reflects the spirit of our initiative, contributing to the upliftm ent of Pasacao as a whole."

The ceremony was graced by Ma. Ella E. Verano, DOLE Camarines Sur Provincial Head, Hon. Niño A. Tayco- Board Member 2nd District, Hon. Jorge R. Bengua- Municipal Mayor, and Hon. Maryol Tayco- Municipal Vice-Mayor.

Members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Maria Victoria Tayco-Regnim- PESO Manager, Rev. Fr. Mark Quesada, Johana Vi Gasga, LIO, Leslie Ann Tormes, LDS, TESDA staff, PNP staff, and LGU staff showed their unwavering support for the project.

The event not only marked the distribution of livelihood opportunities but also underscored the collaborative effort towards empowering the community through the Pagkaing Oragon sa Daungan initiative. /jveg/