BUGUEY, CAGAYAN – To strengthen the seaweed industry along the northern coast of Cagayan, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) extended livelihood assistance to over 1,000 seaweed farmers in Buguey town.
Laura Diciano, DOLE provincial head, said the department distributed P300,000 worth of livelihood starter kits tailored specifically for seaweed farming—one of the town’s emerging economic drivers.
She said the initiative is part of DOLE’s commitment to empower skilled but underserved fisherfolk and rural workers with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
“Seaweed farming holds immense promise for Buguey. By providing the tools and training needed to grow this industry, we’re not just creating jobs—we’re investing in a more resilient local economy,” Diciano said.
Aside from livelihood support, DOLE also delivered a comprehensive suite of government services to the community, including technical and advisory visits for micro-enterprise, career development support for senior high school student, TUPAD and livelihood applicant profiling and interviews, orientation sessions for SPES and GIP beneficiaries, and assistance with formal registration of workers’ associations.
Diciano also also that the event is part of the broader Bagong Pilipinas initiative, which aims to bring essential government services directly to underserved communities, ensuring that development efforts are inclusive and far-reaching.
Buguey Mayor Liceria Antiporda expressed gratitude for the program, highlighting its long-term potential for food security and economic growth.
“Our coastline presents both challenges and opportunities. With this boost in seaweed farming, we see a promising tide toward sustainable progress for Buguey.” (OTB/PIA Region 2)
