In 2013, Barangay Hamogaway in the town of Bayugan, Agusan del Sur experienced an insurgency problem. Like many other conflict-affected communities, the residents’ main source of livelihood (farming) was severely affected as people feared going to their farms, worried that rebels might be in the area.
When the barangay became eligible to receive assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga through the EO 70 Conflict Vulnerable Area, the residents organized themselves into the Hamogaway Farmers Association, with a majority of its members being women, established the general merchandise store.
“I really feel empowered as a member of SLPA. This has greatly helped me, especially when I attended trainings and seminars on how to manage our store”, said Haydee Laborada.
After completing the required trainings, the association received a ₱300,000.00 cash grant in 2022, which they used to establish the said store. This opportunity opened their minds to the possibilities of managing a business, a big step for many of them who were previously full-time farmers or farmers’ wives.
With the support of the Barangay Council and the community, the general merchandise store continues to operate successfully up to this day. Many residents from nearby barangays prefer to buy their daily needs from the store rather than travel to the city center of Bayugan, where transportation costs are high.
According to Novel Duhac, a regular customer, the store has made their lives more convenient.
“Whenever we need something, we no longer have to go to the market. Instead of spending money on transportation, we buy here. The prices are the same, and they already have frozen goods, rice, and chicken. Since we live far and in the mountains, this helps us a lot.”
To secure the sustainability of the enterprise, the barangay council led by Chairman Joseph Buyog passed a Barangay Resolution stating that the building constructed for the store cannot be reclaimed or taken back, regardless of who becomes the Barangay Captain in the future. This step not only formalized their support but also boosted the confidence of the members to further grow their livelihood for the next generations.
Every December, members receive benefits such as profit sharing, patronage rewards, and compensation when they take turns manning the store. This system fosters a strong sense of ownership and teamwork among members.
The residents of Barangay Hamogaway have also felt the presence and support of the government through DSWD’s PAMANA program. The livelihood project has not only provided income and convenience but has also strengthened community solidarity and hope for a more stable and progressive future.
“For people like us who went through trauma, the store has truly helped me. I am grateful to those who helped us because it gives us a peace of mind,” Haydee added.
