DOLE Grants ₱1 Million in Livelihood Aid to Zamboanga Workers
Zamboanga City – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region 9 – Zamboanga City Field Office recently distributed ₱1 million in livelihood kits to 33 beneficiaries from District 2, providing a crucial boost to small-scale entrepreneurs and vulnerable workers in the region.
Kabuhayan Program Empowers Local Workers
The assistance was provided through DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood Program, also known as Kabuhayan Program, aimed at supporting vulnerable workers in establishing sustainable income sources. The turnover ceremony took place on February 25, 2026, at the Lobregat Village Covered Court in Barangay Putik [PIA].
Livelihood Kits and Support Services
Beneficiaries received livelihood packages averaging ₱29,000, supporting ventures such as fish vending, street food stalls (barbecue and banana cue), fruit stands, and small-scale cooking businesses [PIA]. The packages also include one year of Personal Accident Insurance from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), providing added financial security as beneficiaries launch or expand their businesses.
Collaboration and Community Support
The program’s success was bolstered by a strong partnership with the Barangay Local Government Unit of Putik, which contributed ₱435,000 in counterpart support. Beneficiaries also contributed to the program’s funding [PIA].
Government Agencies Provide Additional Resources
Several government agencies participated in the event, offering orientations on available services to further support the beneficiaries. These included the Social Security System, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG Fund, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Department of Trade and Industry, and Philippine Statistics Authority [PIA].
Beneficiary Testimonial
Vicente F. Espinosa, a beneficiary from Barangay Zambowood, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Muchas gracias con DOLE, Barangay Putik, y el officina del District 2 na oportunidad que ya dale conamon. Grande ayuda gat este para allivia diamon vida,” which translates to, “Thank you very much to DOLE, Barangay Putik, and the District 2 office for the opportunity given to us. This is a great facilitate in improving our lives.” [PIA].
DOLE’s Commitment to Livelihood Development
Through the Kabuhayan Program, DOLE continues to empower workers in the informal sector, fostering small enterprise development, strengthening household incomes, and promoting self-reliance [PIA].