TACLOBAN CITY — Eighty-seven farmers and fisherfolk in Leyte have received low-interest livelihood loans from the provincial government to help expand their agricultural and fishery enterprises.
The financial assistance, provided under the provincial government’s Community Assistance Program (CAP), ranged from P50,000 to P100,000 per beneficiary. Loan checks were released at the Provincial Government Complex.
The loans will support various livelihood activities, including fisheries, vegetable production and livestock raising.
The provincial government said the loans are payable on an installment basis, with first-time borrowers enjoying zero-interest financing. Those with good repayment records may qualify for re-loans to sustain or expand their enterprises.
Among the beneficiaries was 71-year-old Geronimo Belleza of Barangay Sta. Isabel in MacArthur, who received a P50,000 loan to cover major expenses for his tilapia farming operation.
Also availing of the program was 19-year-old college student Bejie Urtola of Barangay Villa Aurora in Burauen, who plans to use the loan to purchase hogs for a fattening venture.
With support from his parents, Urtola plans to raise the hogs and sell them after about four months. He said proceeds from the venture will help finance his education while giving him experience in managing a small agricultural enterprise.
The provincial government said the CAP is intended to provide small farmers and fisherfolk with access to affordable capital, allowing them to sustain their livelihoods and create opportunities for business expansion.
The program is among the priorities of Gov. Carlos Jericho “Icot” Petilla, who has emphasized accessible and affordable financing to help small farmers and fisherfolk start, sustain and strengthen their livelihood enterprises.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
