The DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA fires up an initiative that promotes environmental responsibility while creating livelihood opportunities for marginalized communities in Sitio Cabar, Brgy. Aribungos, Brooke’s Point, Palawan.
Through the Sustainable Livelihood Program, Briq It On SLP Association, composed of 30 Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was formed and granted Php 600,000.00 seed capital fund last November 6, 2024 to jumpstart the eco-charcoal briquette production – an environment-friendly livelihood designed to transform lives while protecting nature.
“The project is a result of a comprehensive understanding of its need and relevance, as well as meticulous planning initiated by the SLPA with the assistance of the PDOs and in collaboration with partner organizations. It is a milestone undertaking in the context of SLP implementation in the locality, especially amid the growing demand for innovative actions and meaningful interventions for program participants.”, Gina M. Bacosa, SLP Palawan Provincial Coordinator said.
Further, a Practical Training on Charcoal Briquette Production in partnership with RM Metal Works from Nueva Ecija was held right at their production site to strengthen the capabilities of the SLPA members on May 27, 2025.
The hands-on session introduced participants to the full production process, from identifying and preparing raw materials to operating briquette-making machines and learning essential aspects such as packaging, pricing, and marketing. Through the capacity-building activity, participants were able to apply these skills directly, fostering confidence and competence in running a sustainable livelihood enterprise.
“Kami po ay taos pusong nagpapasalamat sa DSWD-SLP! Sa panahon ngayon, tunay pong napakahirap humanap ng puhunan o kapital para makapagsimula ng negosyo. Pero dahil sa SLP, kami pong mga benepisyaryo ng Pantawid ay nabigyan ng libreng kapital para makapagsimula ng negosyong Charcoal Briquette. And dating pangarap lang, ngayon ay unti-unti nang nagiging katotohanan. Wala na pong dahilan para hindi magsikap, puhunan ay sagot na, diskarte at tiyaga na lang ang kulang. Saludo po kami sa SLP, dahil hindi lang kami binigyan ng kabuhayan, kundi binigyan din kami ng pag-asa”
(“We are sincerely grateful to DSWD-SLP! These days, it’s truly difficult to find capital to start a business. But thanks to SLP, we Pantawid beneficiaries were given free capital to start a charcoal briquette business. What was once just a dream is now slowly becoming a reality. There’s no more reason not to strive—capital is already provided; all that’s left is strategy and perseverance. We salute SLP, because it didn’t just give us a livelihood, it also gave us hope.”), Maribeth A. Valdestamon, SLPA president, gladly stated.
This initiative highlights the Department’s commitment through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in providing holistic and inclusive livelihood support, empowering program participants with practical skills that contribute to community development and environmental sustainability.
