The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) have formalized a partnership to strengthen two key government programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of Filipinos.

On Friday, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to enhance the DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), also known as the “Kabuhayan” program, and the DA’s Kadiwa Store project.

“With the intensified partnership between the DA and DOLE, through Kadiwa ng Pangulo stores, it will be further promoted to give DILP beneficiaries opportunities and to develop their livelihoods and meet the needs of their families,” Laguesma said as he highlighted the importance of the partnership.

The Kadiwa project increases small farmers’ incomes, expands market access for beneficiaries, and provides the urban poor with affordable, fresh agri-fishery products.

It also seeks to stabilize prices and ensure a steady supply of basic commodities.

The DILP, on the other hand, supports vulnerable workers by offering in-kind grants of up to PHP50,000 for individuals and up to PHP3 million for groups to help start or expand businesses.

Under the MOU, the DOLE will identify and refer DILP beneficiaries, including associations and labor unions, for group livelihood projects.

It will also assist in the setup and operations of Kadiwa stores, including supplier coordination and logistics.

Laurel said the collaboration “exemplifies a shared vision of creating sustainable livelihood and improving the lives of Filipinos, especially farmers, fishermen, workers, and consumers.” (PNA)