The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional office in Eastern Visayas on Thursday awarded PHP2.99 million in livelihood assistance to seven women’s associations in Liloan, Southern Leyte.

A total of 111 women benefited from the grant implemented under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), in partnership with the local government of Liloan town.

Recipients are members of the San Roque Active Women’s Association, Catig Women’s Association, MAWOSA Ilagnon Women’s Association, San Isidro Bantilis Women’s Association, Bisig ng Kababaihan Women’s Association, Rosas Pandan Women’s Association, and Colorful Falls of Magaupas Women’s Association.

The assistance is part of the project titled “Liloan Women in Action: A Women’s Association Empowerment and Livelihood Initiative,” which supports various income-generating activities such as laundry services, convenience stores, salabat (ginger tea) production and dressmaking.

Beneficiary groups received working capital in the form of tools, jigs, and equipment appropriate to their chosen enterprises.

The initiative demonstrates the local government’s strong commitment to women empowerment and community developed, according to Liloan Mayor Jonna Adan in a statement.

“This program gives our women the opportunity to stand on their own feet by building livelihoods that not only support their families but also inspire others in the community,” Adan said.

DOLE Southern Leyte provincial head Eden Ligaya Golong described the grant as both an inspiration and an investment, noting that empowering women-led organizations helps drive sustainable economic growth at the grassroots level.

DOLE officials noted that the initiative underscores the crucial role of women’s organizations in job creation and community development, highlighting how targeted livelihood support can help marginalized sectors achieve long-term economic stability.

DILP is DOLE’s flagship initiative aimed at promoting inclusive growth through livelihood assistance and capacity-building support, helping beneficiaries transform their skills into viable and sustainable enterprises. (PNA)