Western Uma, Lubuagan, Kalinga – The Department of Labor and Employment – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR) strengthens the coaching and mentoring component of the business development services provided to livelihood beneficiaries. The DOLE-CAR continue to work hand-in-hand with different LGUs in the grant and implementation of livelihood projects. Barangay Western Uma, through its officials, served as the accredited co-partner of the Regional office for this undertaking.

Through its Kalinga Field Office, DOLE-CAR conducted a two-day capability building activity last August 7 and 8, 2021, on the DOLE Livelihood Program to the officers of three (3) beneficiary associations of Barangay Western Uma, Lubuagan, Kalinga, and the barangay officials.

Kalinga Field Office Chief Labor and Employment Officer Dr. Avelina D. Manganip spearheaded the discussion to the three organizations: the Latawan Christian Farmers Organization with 66 members, Mallongon Farmers Association with 73 members, and the Ag-agama Farmers Association with 57 members.

The first day’s activity included discussions on the procedures in applying or registering as a workers’ association, the integral contents of the association’s constitution and by-laws; and the good qualities of a unified association. The interactive second day’s activity focused on the contents of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA). It included the responsibilities of the parties, commencement of project implementation, and modifications or amendment effectivity, and was followed by topics on liquidation reports.

Dr. Manganip reminded the barangay officials and association officers of their roles provided in their Memorandum of Agreement in the implementation of the project. She also emphasized to the barangay officials the importance of liquidation reports of the projects. She also advised them to update their records by submitting semi-annual and annual status reports.

The Latawan Christian Farmers Organization was granted with a post-harvest facility, which includes a rice mill, multi-thresher and hand tractor, worth more than P406,000.00. The Mallongon Farmers Association was granted with more than P588,000.00 on their coffee processing project. The Ag-Agama Farmers Association, on the other hand, was granted with P454,000.00 assistance for its post-harvest facility through its solar tunnel dryer.

DOLE-CAR Regional Director Nathaniel V. Lacambra, CESO III, remarked that these three associations of Barangay Western Uma, should continue to collaborate with local government agencies in order to fast-track the implementation of programs and projects. These partnerships enable existing livelihood undertakings to grow into viable and sustainable businesses by complementing the materials with skills development and other resources.

Stakeholders and participants extended their gratitude to the DOLE-CAR for the approval of these projects. They stated that because of these projects, organizations could generate employment and augment the income of its members. This also benefits the community and those who reside nearby.

END//Daryll Ponard