In its pursuit to provide and promote quality labor and employment programs and services, the Department of Labor and Employment XI officially launched its Livelihood Startup Project on February 24, 2022 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte. With the theme “Umpisang Pagbangon, Proyektong Pangkabuhayan ang Tugon,” the project aims to encourage partnership with the members of the industry tripartite councils (ITC), non-government organizations (NGO), and higher educational institutions in coming up with fresh and innovative ideas for livelihood projects that can continuously help the community and revive the economy as Davao Region adapt to the new normal.

The DOLE XI-initiated project was conceptualized in line with the Office’s aim to further improve the delivery of its programs and services, specifically the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Project (DILP). Technical Services and Support Division Acting Chief Paul V. Cruz said, “As an ISO-certified and PQA awardee organization, we operate in a culture of continual improvement. We will widen our horizon and bring in more partners in our radar screen in order to reach out to more beneficiaries.” OIC-Asst. Regional Director Atty. Jason P. Balais added that this served as a challenge for DOLE XI and the ITC to look at possible projects that can actually be developed into something big and eventually gain recognition. “We are recovering from a very disruptive situation because of the pandemic. This project will not end on May 1. This is already a continuing challenge to really work hand in hand.”

The contest-type Livelihood Startup Project has already started accepting proposals thru email. DOLE XI emphasized that the proposed projects should be more on production, manufacturing, and processing and should benefit more than 50 members of the adopted community. The Project Evaluation team will be selecting at least five (5) project proposals for virtual presentation and the winners will be announced on Labor Day, May 1, 2022.

OIC-Regional Director Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy further accentuated how the Department’s programs will be brought closer to the people through the Livelihood Startup Project. “I am excited about the implementation of this project and its effect to the community in Davao Region.”

The launching was graced by Workers in the Informal Economy Development Division (WEIDD) Chief Ma. Lourdes J. Gonzales, heads of DOLE XI Field Offices, Regional and Field Livelihood Focal Persons, and members of the Regional Tripartite Industry Council led by its Vice Chair for Management Ms. Rachel P. Guinan. More information about the Livelihood Startup Project can be accessed thru DOLE XI official Facebook Page.