DOLE grants P6.5-M livelihood assistance to community groups in Claver, Surigao Norte
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — Three community-based associations from Claver town received more than ₱6.5 million in livelihood assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to strengthen grassroots enterprises and expand income opportunities for farmers, traders, and tailors in the municipality.
The total amount of ₱6,557,150 was turned over on March 4 during a ceremonial distribution in Claver, Surigao del Norte.
The grants aim to expand income opportunities, improve productivity, and enhance access to essential goods and services within the community.
The Claver Community Traders Association received ₱2,994,950 for its retail rice trading project, which is expected to improve access to affordable rice while generating steady income for its members.
The Sabang Tayaga Tailors Association was granted ₱566,000 to expand its tailoring and t-shirt printing services, a growing enterprise in the municipality.
Meanwhile, the Magallanes Integrated Farmers Association received ₱2,996,200 to acquire a corn and rice harvester, an investment projected to reduce post-harvest losses, cut labor costs, and increase farm productivity.
The turnover ceremony was attended by DOLE Caraga Regional Director Jason P. Balais, Technical Support and Services Division Chief Annie C. Tangpos, Provincial Director May C. Velonta, Claver Mayor Georgia D. Gokiangkee, PESO, and officers and members of the beneficiary associations.
Director Balais said, “The release of the grants this year demonstrates DOLE’s continued commitment to supporting associations with strong potential for sustainability. He expressed confidence that the funded projects would evolve into stable ventures that would benefit not only association members but also the wider community.”
Mayor Gokiangkee conveyed her appreciation to DOLE for its continued partnership with the local government, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in delivering responsive and impactful programs to Claver residents.
Rosalina Rivero, president of the Sabang Tayaga Tailors Association, said the grant would help the group meet increasing demand for uniforms and customized T-shirt printing services in the municipality. “This additional resource would allow the association to fulfill bulk orders while creating more livelihood opportunities for our members.”
The rice trading initiative is expected to stabilize supply and prices at the community level, while the farm mechanization project will modernize harvesting practices and increase farmers’ earnings.
Together, the three projects are forecast to stimulate local economic activity, generate employment, and build stronger, self-sustaining community enterprises. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DOLE Surigao del Norte)