Financial assistance amounting to P800,000 was distributed to a selected cooperative, association, and individuals during the distribution of cheques under the Negosyo and Livelihood Development Support Fund Program (NLD-SFP).

The NLD-SFP is a program initiated by Davao Oriental Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang and implemented by the Provincial Cooperative Office. The said initiative aimed to provide additional capitalization for registered, active, and compliant cooperatives, associations, and individuals in the province to enhance their productivity, expand their businesses and help them sustain their groups.

During the turnover ceremony, newly-installed Provincial Cooperative Officer Rosafel C. Batingana reminded the recipients to use well the funds. She said, “We in the Provincial Government, with the leadership of Governor Nelson L. Dayanghirang, constantly strive to help everyone. May you all use the money you will receive today for the right purpose to further increase production and uplift the lives of every member of your respective group.”

The NLD-SFP started in 2018, funded by the Provincial Government with an allocated budget of P5M annually.

To date, seven (7) cooperatives, six (6) associations, and 25 individuals benefitted from the program.

During the COVID 19 pandemic surge, the program was halted; the budget was realigned to provide immediate assistance to the cooperative members registered, which amounted to P4M.

At the turnover ceremony held yesterday at Honey’s Hotel, Mati City, the following received financial assistance:

Cooperative: SICAPCO – P200,000 Association: LUFA – P250,000 5 Individuals: Arnulfo Soriano – P100,000 Lodia Arreza – P100,000 Merlie Mundia – P50,000 Genelyn Parojinog – P50,000 Flora Abrenica – P50,000

The recipients fall under the NLD-SFP’s loan program where they will have to pay the amount loaned to them every month to the Provincial Treasurer’s Office at no interest. By Shaye Dacles | Photos by Mark Alvite