MARIHATAG – Through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga turned over livelihood assistance to five associations in conflict-vulnerable areas of Marihatag, Surigao del Sur on January 12.

Under the SLP’s implementation of the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA), each association received PhP300,000 through a cheque. Further, these associations were identified by the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) and endorsed to the DSWD-SLP for livelihood intervention.

Municipal Mayor Justin Marc Pelenio personally took part in the activity and initiated to do the turnover of checks at his office. He encouraged the program participants to be keen on their expenses and to work harmoniously for their project’s success.

After the turnover of grants, these associations will be closely monitored by the DSWD-SLP and the Local Government Unit of Marihatag, through the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. This is to ensure that the program participants are provided with technical assistance and help them attain growth and sustainability.

Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan or PAMANA is a program and framework of the national government that primarily seeks to push for the country’s peace and development. It is implemented in communities vulnerable to conflicts. In DSWD, the Sustainable Livelihood Program is the main program delegated to implement PAMANA’s livelihood interventions for communities in conflict-vulnerable areas. (Social Marketing Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga)