Elmer Abordonado’s life took an unexpected turn in 2021. As a habal-habal driver in the municipality of RT Lim, Zamboanga Sibugay, he made a modest living transporting passengers on his motorcycle. But a tragic accident left him bedridden for nearly a year, stripping him of his sole source of income and plunging him into uncertainty. For many, such a devastating event would have marked the end of hope, but for Elmer, it was the beginning of a remarkable transformation.
Determined not to let his circumstances define him, Elmer began seeking ways to rebuild his life. His first step was to approach the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program for medical support. While there, he reached out to employees at the Social Welfare and Development Team (SWADT) office, inquiring about potential livelihood opportunities. This proactive mindset led him to the late Edgar Mag-abo, the Provincial Coordinator of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), who introduced him to the program’s benefits and possibilities.
Elmer’s journey with the SLP required patience and perseverance. He regularly visited the SWADT office to follow up on his application, building rapport with the Field Project Development Officers along the way. His efforts bore fruit in November 2022 when he received a Livelihood Assistance Grant (LAG) of ₱12,500. With the grant, Elmer purchased 100 chicks, feeds, vitamins, and essential materials to kickstart a poultry business.
The initial investment was just the beginning. Through relentless hard work and dedication, Elmer’s 100 chicks grew into 200, then 300. Today, his poultry enterprise produces over 4,000 chicks per month across five farming sites in municipalities such as Tungawan, Ipil, Titay, and Siocon. He has become the top supplier of chicken and dressed chicken in Zamboanga City and Zamboanga Sibugay. In just two years, Elmer’s efforts have allowed him to purchase a car and a wing van to support his growing business.
But Elmer’s success isn’t just measured by his personal achievements. Grateful for the blessings he has received, he has made it his mission to uplift others. He formed a group of 20 farmers from various municipalities, providing them with chicks, feeds, and equipment to start their own broiler farming ventures. For Elmer, this initiative is not just about business but about sharing the grace he feels he has received.
Elmer’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of community support. From a bedridden accident survivor to a thriving entrepreneur and mentor, he has turned adversity into opportunity, inspiring others to rise above life’s challenges. His journey reminds us that with determination and a generous heart, it is possible to rewrite one’s story and create a brighter future for others.