THE Guimaras Provincial Government and the Association of Persons with Disabilities (APWD) in Nueva Valencia signed on Wednesday an agreement releasing the livelihood aid worth P50,000 for woodcarving project.
“The fund that was given to the group will be used to buy materials needed in making the wooden souvenir items and in improving it. If the group will be able to create more items, then more income the association can gain. The group doesn’t need to earn more to return the money to the province, but they just have to work hard to develop their project,” cooperative development specialist II Elena Mediana said.
“Actually we can increase the fund if the project is very effective. If we can see improvement or if the business runs smoothly and progressively, we won’t hesitate to give additional assistance to the group,” Governor Samuel T. Gumarin said.
Gumarin said the program helps uplift the socio-economic status of the members of the woodcarving items.
The province will provide technical assistance in organizational strengthening, financial and project management, he added.
“I am hoping that the fund that was given to the association will be used accordingly for the advancement of their livelihood,” Nueva Valencia Mayor Emmanuel Galila said.
The project is considered as one of the most effective livelihoods in Nueva Valencia, where many residents can showcase their expertise and skill in wood carving.
“This is a big help on our side because we can improve our items with the fund that was given to us. We are really looking forward to have more costumers buying our souvenir items,” said Ramel Gegalao, member of the association.
Gumarin represented the Provincial Government while Bibiano Galleto represented APWD during the signing of agreement. (PR)