Farmers, local biz get start-up aid

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Labor and Employment in Bicol (DOLE-5) has provided farmers' associations and local entrepreneurs with start-up capital.

In a media release on Tuesday, the farmers' group from San Miguel town and the 19 local entrepreneurs from Baras received more than PHP800,000 in funding for their meat processing project and various livelihood ventures.

The ventures include carpentry, fish vending, laundry services, nail care services, vulcanizing, car washing, barbershops, and automotive services.

DOLE Bicol Assistant Regional Director Nepomuceno Leaño II expressed support for the beneficiaries, encouraging them to strengthen their livelihoods as a means of overcoming poverty.

“This livelihood package is not just an aid; it is a responsibility. Take care of it, nurture it, and let it grow,” he said.

One of the beneficiaries, Arvie (not his real name), expressed his gratitude for the tools and equipment he received.

“I am very grateful to DOLE for the help you have provided. Now I will have tools that I can use for my work. This is also a big help for my colleagues. Thank you very much,” he said in Filipino. (PNA)