CAPIZ — Nineteen persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the Municipality of Pilar, Capiz received a P500,000 livelihood assistance through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Regional Office 6 under its Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), aimed at promoting inclusive growth and economic empowerment for vulnerable sectors.
The assistance, in the form of a Commodities Store Project, was formally turned over on May 22, 2026, during a ceremony led by DOLE RO 6–Capiz Field Office Head Atty. Ma. Ailyne P. Valaquio-Pueblo.
The project seeks to provide sustainable livelihood opportunities that will enable beneficiaries to become economically productive, self-reliant, and active contributors to community development.
Atty. Valaquio-Pueblo said the initiative serves as a meaningful opportunity for PWD beneficiaries to improve their quality of life, support their families, and gain confidence through economic engagement.
The Municipal Government of Pilar, under Mayor Arnold A. Perez, supported the project by providing a designated area where beneficiaries can establish and operate the store, ensuring its long-term sustainability.
DOLE Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr. emphasized the agency’s commitment to responsive and compassionate public service, saying the program reflects efforts to reach underserved and marginalized sectors.
“The Department is true to its mandate in delivering programs that directly address the needs of vulnerable sectors. This reflects our advocacy for social justice—DOLE delivers to those who have less in life,” Rodriguez said.
The initiative is aligned with the Bagong Pilipinas vision of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which underscores inclusive development and ensures that no Filipino is left behind in nation-building.
Various government agencies also attended the turnover ceremony, highlighting a collaborative approach to rural development. Present were Mayor Arnold A. Perez and municipal officials, PLtCol. Lumyaen D. Lidawan of the Capiz 1st Mobile Force Company, PESO Manager Cris Anthony Alba, PDAO Head Jobert Lago, and the 19 PWD beneficiaries.
The livelihood project is expected to help beneficiaries establish a sustainable source of income while strengthening community-based enterprise development in the municipality./PN
