Gone are the days when women focused only on household chores. Today, they are becoming entrepreneurs and contributing to local economic improvement. The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) has empowered these women within the community. This program provides capacity-building opportunities that enhance their entrepreneurial skills, improve their quality of life, and help them achieve sustainable livelihoods.

The implementation of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) from 2023 to 2024 significantly impacted the lives of the 52,033 program participants across the region, especially the women, who constituted 81%, or 42,516, of the total number served by the program. It was a milestone in the program’s commitment to empowering and capacitating women.

Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero states that the SLP benefits might not be immediately apparent, but they have been a changing experience for many program participants. “The homemakers who once stayed at home are now becoming entrepreneurs. They earn a steady income and contribute to their families and communities,” she says.

Lucero added that the skills enhancement and the training provided by DSWD helped the women feel more confident.

A leading example of program success is the Kapunungan sa Kababayen-an sa Obbo SLPA (KKO), a women’s association in Dalaguete, Cebu. With help from the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the association opened a general merchandise store, which became a source of pride for its members.

Rosa F. Generosa, the vice president of the association, is thankful for the program because it has increased her income, allowing her to support her children’s education. She says, “Sa wala pako aning SLP, lisod gyud pa-igo sa among kita. Pero karon makahatag nako sa panginahanglanon sa akong pamilya ug garbo nako nga apil ko ug successful among negosyo (Before SLP, I struggled to make ends meet. Now, I can provide for my family’s needs, and I’m proud to be part of a successful business).”

The SLP also helps participants develop their skills and become entrepreneurs. Edelina S. Indico, a member of the Bodegas de Tambo in Ayungon, Negros Oriental, exemplifies this. She used her share of the profits to open a successful parlor. She says, “I am grateful to be part of this association. I have gained much more than just a share of the profits.” Indico added that the knowledge and skills she learned from the program are valuable to her.

The SLP partnership with the Local Government Unit has supported various associations. This partnership had a positive impact on more than just the program participants. The program has helped generate tax revenue, boost local growth, and contribute to the town’s economy.

Regional Director Lucero says, “Many of our participants, especially women, have come a long way. They transformed from struggling individuals to successful entrepreneurs who can stand and help their communities.”

The Sustainable Livelihood Program represents hope and transformation. It demonstrates how empowerment can positively change the lives of individuals equipped with tools and skills and supported to succeed. As the program continues to grow and evolve, it will have an impact for many years. ###

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