CAMIGUIN (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office-10 partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Camiguin to provide specialized training under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to enhance the skills and livelihood opportunities of its beneficiaries.
At least two SLP associations underwent rigorous skills training facilitated by TESDA experts on April 11 and 12.
Among the groups, ten individuals from the Manduao Sustainable Livelihood Programme Association (SLPA) delved into the art of meat processing, mastering the techniques of making Tocino, Embutido, and Longganisa.
Meanwhile, 17 participants from the Looc SLPA honed their craft in bread and pastry making, learning the secrets of cinnamon rolls, empanadas, soft dough, and puto cheese.
Led by Alma G. Democer, a seasoned Senior Technical Education and Skills Development Specialist at TESDA Camiguin, the training sessions equipped participants with the fundamental skills necessary for producing high-quality products.
The sessions took place at the Provincial Training Center in Compol, Catarman, Camiguin.
This collaborative initiative is a pivotal component of the program's five-year sustainability plan.
Designed to ensure the continual relevance of SLP interventions to community needs, the plan also aims to fortify support mechanisms for transitioning SLP associations and bolster the sustainability of both associations and their respective livelihood projects.
"As the President of Manduao SLPA in Manduao, Catarman, Camiguin, I am immensely grateful to DSWD SLP and TESDA for their invaluable assistance in our entrepreneurial endeavors. Their support has enhanced my skills and empowered every member of our SLPA and our community as a whole," said Riza A. Banaag.
One of the sustainability plan's primary objectives is to address the challenges of mainstreaming and sustaining projects that arise during the regular implementation of DSWD-SLP processes. Recognizing the necessity for a prolonged incubation period and heightened focus on project sustainability, the plan advocates for continuous and intensified capability-building activities.
Furthermore, the sustainability plan outlines provisions for extending additional livelihood incentives to associations that successfully maintain and sustain their livelihood projects over time. This incentive framework aims to incentivize proactive engagement and commitment among beneficiaries, fostering a culture of self-reliance and entrepreneurship within SLP communities.
As the collaboration between DSWD and TESDA continues to flourish, it signifies a concerted effort towards empowering individuals with the skills and resources necessary to achieve sustainable livelihoods and break free from the cycle of poverty.
Through strategic partnerships and targeted interventions, the SLP remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities and foster economic resilience nationwide. (DSWD-10/PIA-10/Camiguin)
