Dong distributes P90,000 startup fund for entrepreneurs

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — Third District Rep. Aurelio “Dong” Gonzales Jr. led the distribution of P90,000 to 18 beneficiaries who would like to start up their own micro businesses here, as part of his “Sulong Trabaho nang Dong Gonzales” (STRA-DG).

Each of the beneficiaries received P5,000 as startup capital for their businesses. The beneficiaries are expected to start food cart businesses, sari-sari stores or use the finances to increase capital on their existing businesses.

Gonzales said the program is part of the P1-million loan and livelihood fund for indigents and people engaged in micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the third district last October 2012. In addition to the loan program, Gonzales is also giving away livelihood carts and pedicabs.

He said the pedicab program is the most viable support program for poor families living in urban communities. He said the program requires no capital, environment friendly and provides a daily dose of exercise for the operator.

“This livelihood fund support will help our little entrepreneurs to propel their business and graduate to bigger industries. We hope that increase further the number of beneficiaries in the coming months. I personally believe that teaching our people to be entrepreneurs is a better step in helping the economy,” Gonzales said, adding that such move generates jobs and opportunities for locals.

The STRA-DG also provides livelihood carts, trainings and seminars on livelihood management. The loan program charges minimal fees that are also used for other loan beneficiaries under the program. (Ian Ocampo Flora)