A wave of gratitude swept through the members of a community association in Barangay Badas, Mati City, as they received a P300,000 General Merchandise Project on July 18—an initiative that promises to open new doors for livelihood and self-reliance.
The 22 members of the Camansi EO-70 Sustainable Livelihood Program Association expressed their happiness during the successful launching, blessing, and ribbon-cutting ceremony of the project held in their barangay.
Funded under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for Micro-Enterprise Development, this P300,000 project is part of a long-term strategy to promote peace and stability by creating economic opportunities for vulnerable communities.
No less than Governor Niño Uy approved and signed off on the association’s proposal to support their livelihood, further strengthening their path to economic empowerment and self-sufficiency. The project was made possible through the joint efforts of the DSWD, the Provincial Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict (ELCAC) program, LGU-Mati, and other provincial offices.
Board Member Stephen Paul “Popong” Uy, who represented Governor Uy at the event, shared his joy at seeing the project come to life. He reminded the group that even the smallest efforts can lead to success, as long as they endure.
“No matter how small the steps, what’s important is consistency. The challenge now is how to sustain it. As a group, unity, cooperation, and agreement are key. The income you generate can benefit all members—and can even uplift the wider community,” Uy emphasized.
The Camansi Association is just one of many groups across Davao Oriental that have received livelihood assistance under Governor Uy’s leadership, supporting a wide range of income-generating projects.
With continued collaboration between local and national agencies, as well as private stakeholders, Governor Uy envisions reaching even more communities—helping uplift marginalized groups and promoting inclusive development.
The launch of the General Merchandise Project marks a milestone in the province’s journey toward economic resilience and social progress. By investing in sustainable, community-driven initiatives, the province is paving the way for a brighter future for every Oriental Dabawenyo.
The event was attended by CSWDO Head Mae Belle Fontillas, Provincial ELCAC Action Officer Rod John Pandili, Barangay Badas Captain Bonifacio Visitacion, CDT 66IB SSG Wilmar Completo, and Provincial Monitoring and Evaluation Officer April Sarah Soberano. By Nelton Abing | Photos by Jerome Diosma
