SANTA CRUZ, Marinduque — In a bid to enhance the economic participation of differently-abled individuals, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE)-Mimaropa through its Marinduque Provincial Office, conducted a livelihood orientation for persons with disabilities (PWD) on February 5 at Brgy. Dolores, town of Sta. Cruz.
The initiative, held under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), sought to provide sustainable income-generating opportunities for PWD. Livelihood Development Specialists Christian Mark Rodelas and Michelle Zulueta led the orientation, engaging 65 participants in discussions on skills training, financial management, and access to tools and equipment essential for self-employment.
Toni (not his real name), a parent of a child with a disability, expressed his appreciation for the program, sharing, “Matagal na kaming naghahanap ng pwedeng pagkakakitaan dahil sabi ko ngani, ‘yan pong mga iba diyan ay walang kakayahan na makapagtrabaho.”
“Ngayon binigyan tayo ng pagkakataon ni Lord na mangyari ito. Ito na po iyong sagot sa mga panalangin natin na magkaroon tayo ng magandang proyekto. Ito po ay mangyayari kung tayong lahat ay magtutulungan,” he added.
Participants lauded the initiative, emphasizing how the orientation broadened their perspectives and opened new pathways for personal growth and entrepreneurship.
DILP, also known as the Kabuhayan Program, aims to equip poor, marginalized, and vulnerable workers, including PWD, with the necessary knowledge and resources to overcome employment barriers. DOLE remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals, proving that disability is not a limitation but a stepping stone to new opportunities. — Marinduquenews.com
