BORONGAN CITY-Two farmers associations in San Julian, Eastern Samar received a major boost to their agricultural livelihood through the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), which turned over P1 million worth of farming equipment and agricultural supplies on May 27.
The Casoroy Multi-Cropping Farmers Association received P500,000 worth of farm machinery including floating tillers, grass cutters, sprayers, shovels, and other tools to improve farm productivity.
Meanwhile, the Libas Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Association (LARBA) received rice, fertilizers, livestock feed, seedlings, and agrivet supplies, also valued at P500,000, to support their livelihood projects.
The assistance was made possible through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (Kabuhayan Program), which supports both emerging and existing community-based enterprises.
The associations expressed their deep gratitude to Senator Risa Hontiveros for securing the funding and to Eric Aseo, a local governance and development expert, for his role in facilitating the project’s implementation.
In a Facebook post, Nerisa Ditalo of LARBA and Secretary of Brgy. Nena said “Senator Hontiveros’ generous support and Aseo’s guidance have empowered us to pursue our goals as farmers. Their help has made a real impact on our lives.”
Ditalo said the barangay council of Casoroy also issued a message of thanks, emphasizing that the support will “advance community initiatives, empower residents, and foster sustainable development.”
SK chairperson of Casoroy, Jan Ray Opimo, echoed this appreciation, recognizing the partnership as a model for inclusive progress.
“This support will significantly advance our community initiatives, empowering residents, and fostering sustainable development in our barangay,” Opimo said.
Through this collaborative effort, local farmers are now better equipped to enhance productivity and build sustainable livelihoods, turning hope into action across the rural communities of San Julian.
(VTG/PIA Eastern Samar)
