THE Department of Labor and Employment-Davao del Norte Field Office (Dole-DavNor) awarded a total of P1.1 million worth of livelihood materials to three local associations in Talaingod.
Of the total amount, the Ata-Manobo Former Rebel Association received P300,000 for their corn kernel processing project, while the Salawao Developmental Workers Association and the Tatatg IP Parent Scholar Association each received P400,000 for their food processing ventures.
“These projects are expected to foster long-term economic growth, reduce dependency on external aid, and encourage self-sufficiency at the grassroots level,” Dole-DavNor said in their Facebook post on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Erlinda G. Mamitag, head of the Dole-DavNor, urged the beneficiaries to approach the livelihood projects with dedication and unity. She emphasized that the success of these initiatives not only depends on the resources provided but also on the beneficiaries' commitment and perseverance.
“Let these grants be a starting point for sustainable growth and lasting peace in your communities,” she said.
The president of the Ata-Manobo Former Rebel Association expressed gratitude, saying he never expected they would be given a second chance, but Dole believed in them through the Dole Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP). He shared that, through the program, they felt genuine acceptance rather than judgment.
“Laing dalan among gigikanan, apan karon naglakaw na kami padulong sa paglaum. Karon, nasayod na mi unsa gyud ang tinuod nga gobyerno kadtong maminaw, motabang, ug mopasaka sa kinabuhi sa katawhan. Kining higayona, labaw pa sa panginabuhian. Buhaton namo ang tanan aron masuklian ang pagsalig nga gihatag sa amoa,” he said.
(We came from a different path, but today, we walk toward hope. Now we know what real government looks like, one that listens, helps, and uplifts the lives of its people. This opportunity is more than livelihood, and we will do everything we can to honor that trust.)
The three associations are part of DILP.
The awarding of the livelihood materials was conducted in coordination with the Checkered Farms Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Multi-Purpose Cooperative (Cfarbempco) and the 56th Infantry “Tatag” Battalion. RGP