An association of returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Antique is a recipient of PHP400,000 grant to support its mushroom production project and address the increasing demand for the product.

Federation of OFW Family Circle Sibalom, Inc. president Janet Fadullan said members of 42 village associations, composed mostly of women, intend to produce chicharon or crispy mushroom and other by-products as a source of livelihood.

“We are embarking on the mushroom industry because of the lack of supply in the local markets and the malls,” she said in an interview. “Our members will get a share of the income.”

She said they will use the fund, from the Legarda Micro Small and Medium Excellence Award, to buy shredding, incubator, bagging and inoculator machines.

The federation received the check during a ceremony at the main campus of University of Antique, graced by Antique Rep. Antonio Agapito Legarda, on Monday.

Noli Valezuela, team leader of the Department of Social Welfare and Development – Sustainable Livelihood Program in Antique, joined Legarda in releasing the seed capital for the project.

“With the 2025 National Women’s Month Celebration, we reaffirm our collective vision to empower women, promote gender equality and ensure equitable access to resources and opportunities,” Legarda said. (PNA)