Surigao del Sur – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, in collaboration with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), recently conducted a technical skills training session for participants of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in the municipalities of Carmen, San Miguel, and the City of Tandag. The training took place from January 27 to 30, 2024.
A total of 40 SLP participants from various communities in Surigao del Sur benefitted from the initiative, equipping them with essential technical skills to support their livelihood projects. Members of the Puyat Madasigon SLP Association (SLPA) were trained in calamansi juice processing, while the Bitaugan Kadalikanan Kalipi SLPA learned the craft of abaca handicraft making. Additionally, members of the SAN Sweet Delight SLPA from Tandag City were taught banana chip and polvoron production.
The training sessions were facilitated by TESDA’s experienced trainers, who provided comprehensive lectures and guided hands-on practical exercises to ensure that participants gained valuable knowledge and skills applicable to their respective businesses.
Nenita Estrella, president of the Puyat Madasigon SLPA, expressed her appreciation for the training, emphasizing its impact on their livelihood endeavors. “We gained valuable knowledge throughout this training, which has broadened our expertise and strengthened our confidence in product development,” Estrella stated.
She also commended the initiative and its organizers for their unwavering support. “We deeply appreciate the tireless efforts to support us beyond financial aid. These skills empower us in our livelihoods, and we extend our gratitude to DSWD-SLP and TESDA for dedicating time and resources to provide such impactful training,” she added.
The Sustainable Livelihood Program remains a flagship initiative of the DSWD, aimed at enhancing the socio-economic conditions of poor, vulnerable, and marginalized households and communities. Through capacity-building programs like this, the agency seeks to enable participants to access resources necessary for establishing and sustaining resilient livelihoods.
