MANILA Vice Mayor Chi Atienza is now laying the groundwork for the immediate rollout of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Manila, following a meeting with Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) representatives.
”Ito po ay tulong para makatayo ang mga sektor na malapit sa aming puso,” Atienza said, as she assured Manila residents that her office is closely coordinating with the DSWD for the immediate implementation of the said project.
Meantime, she advised the residents to wait for further announcements regarding the application process and schedule of the program launch, to ensure an orderly rollout.
Atienza highly welcomed the national agency’s support as she announced that DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Undersecretary Pinky Romualdez, together with their staff, are now finalizing the implementation guidelines of the program.
”Maraming salamat po DSWD Sec. Rex Gatchalian and Usec. Pinky Romualdez sa livelihood programs support na ibababa po ninyo sa Maynila,” Atienza said.
It was learned that the upcoming rollout focuses on providing sustainable economic opportunities for marginalized Manileños, particularly those in need of capital and skills training.
“For the initial phase, the program will target 20 associations, with each group composed of 30 members. Beneficiaries will be organized into SLP Associations per district to ensure organized and sustainable management of the livelihood grants,” the vice mayor said.
In order to ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it most, Atienza said her office has set specific qualification guidelines, where beneficiaries are required to present a valid government ID and must not have previously received assistance from the SLP, even as the program also adheres to a strict “one beneficiary per household” policy.
Atienza stated that regarding the implementation process, an orientation will be conducted for association leaders to provide clarification and guidance on listing beneficiaries.
Following this, qualified members will undergo a mandatory three-day training to equip them with the necessary skills to manage their livelihood projects, she added.
