Today, Budget and Management Secretary Benjamin Diokno revealed that part of the PhP136.8 billion proposed budget of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for 2019 will support the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). This provides eligible beneficiaries access to sustainable income sources.

In fact, PhP2.3 billion has been allocated for the SLP to empower the country’s vulnerable and marginalized communities, especially those transitioning households under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

“This is open to every poor and disadvantaged Filipino family, including Listahanan-identified households,” Sec. Diokno explained.

Transitioning households under the 4Ps cover those whose level of well-being have improved and whose status have been upgraded to “non-poor.” Nevertheless, these households remain vulnerable with little or no buffer against economic shocks. The SLP is meant to prevent them from reverting to poverty.

“While some PhP88.1 billion has been earmarked for the Conditional Cash Transfer Program or 4Ps, the PhP2.3 billion set aside for the SLP benefits both the Pantawid and Non-Pantawid households,” the Budget Chief added.

With this program, the DSWD will equip SLP beneficiaries with the necessary skills for self-sufficiency through two program tracks: the Micro-Enterprise Development, which provides workshops, access to credit, and other support to start businesses; and the Employment Facilitation track, which offers technical-vocational training and pre-employment assistance services.

Presently, a portion of the SLP was allotted for cash grants to be distributed to beneficiaries affected by the closure of Boracay Island. At least 11,000 households are said to benefit from the funding allocation of PhP250 million.

“The government stands firm in its belief that promoting the right conditions for human capital development in the country is a key factor in sustaining socio-economic stability,” Sec. Diokno stressed. (BITS)

(30)