IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-9 Zamboanga Sibugay Field Office recently turned over livelihood projects to four tricycle operators and drivers’ associations (TODA) in Zamboanga Sibugay, aimed at establishing motor spare parts and repair shops.
A total of 268 people actively participated in the turnover ceremony as members of the RT Lim TODA, Ipil TODA, Metro Ipil TODA, and Kabasalan TODA. This event served as a pivotal moment in jump-starting their respective livelihood endeavors, providing tangible benefits such as motor spare parts and repair tools, to a significant number of community members.
Elpedio Pasco, leader of RT Lim TODA, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the members. “Thank you for this gift, which will help us open a shop benefiting all our members financially. We hope DOLE can support more projects like ours, assisting people in building their livelihoods,” Pasco said.
A key component of the initiative is the enrollment of the associations in GSIS Group Personal Accident Insurance (GPAI) coverage. This insurance serves as a safety net, safeguarding the beneficiaries from unforeseen contingencies, further emphasizing the commitment to their well-being.
Beneficiaries in anticipation of the grant. | Photo courtesy of DOLE Zamboanga Sibugay
With a total value of Php1,034,852.00, the livelihood projects represent a dedication to enabling and assisting tricycle drivers and operators in their business endeavors. Providing motor spare parts and repair tools to these associations improves their ability to deliver dependable and effective transportation services, which promotes sustainability and local economic growth.
DOLE-9 ZSFO presenting the tangible benefits. | Photo courtesy of DOLE Zamboanga Sibugay
Michael Limen, the leader of Ipil TODA, conveyed his gratitude on behalf of all the association’s members, expressing appreciation for the initiative.
“Ipil TODA is thankful for this program because through it, we will be able to realize our aspiration of establishing a shop that will benefit not only us members but also our families,” Limen said.
Representatives from DOLE-9 ZSFO gave beneficiaries a summary of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), which is in line with the larger goal of promoting social and economic development for its beneficiaries through livelihood opportunities. They also emphasized the significance of efficient operational management in maintaining and advancing business operations.
The collaboration among the associations and governmental bodies not only improves the quality of life for its members but also advances the community’s economy as a whole. The commitment of DOLE for a sustainable livelihood environment in Zamboanga Sibugay is indicative of their desire to make a long-lasting positive impact on both the beneficiaries and the community. (RVC/EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
