MIMAROPA REGION | The DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA, through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) Regional Program Management Office (RPMO), continues to build stronger partnerships with local suppliers and local government units (LGUs) to ensure the successful implementation of the 2025 approved livelihood projects across the region.

Last August 2025, a series of Suppliers’ Forums facilitated by SLP provincial staff were held in Oriental Mindoro and Marinduque, gathering SLP participants, local government officials, barangay leaders, and local suppliers to prepare for the rollout of livelihood initiatives. 

The activity aimed to introduce the project requirements of the SLP participants, explain the procurement process, identify eligible local suppliers, and highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in every project implementation.

In Marinduque, forums were successfully held on August 11 in Sta. Cruz with thirty-six (36) local suppliers, August 12 in Boac with ten (10) suppliers, and August 29 in Torrijos with ten (10) suppliers and fourteen (14) representatives from nine (9) SLPAs.

Suppliers ranging from hardware and general merchandise to agricultural, IT, and school supply businesses were invited by the LGUs and pledged their commitment to transparency, timely delivery, quality assurance, and adherence to procurement guidelines and ethical standards. 

“This initiative is designed to assist program participants in accessing essential products and services within the locality. This effort not only benefits the community by expanding the market for legitimate and registered businesses but also fosters greater opportunities to identify and engage local suppliers, thereby directly contributing to the growth of the local economy,” SLP Provincial Coordinator Adonis Analista said.

Meanwhile, on August 26, 2025, the forum in Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, convened thirteen (13) SLP associations, six (6) local suppliers, and municipal and barangay officials at Viking Grill Restobar, Brgy. Bagumbayan. 

Roxas Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Edna C. Buenviaje, in her message, underscored the importance of partnerships and the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring the success of the livelihood projects.

Upon presenting an overview of SLP, procurement procedures, and compliance requirements, the local suppliers engaged in feeds, agricultural supplies, e-bikes, and event essentials offered their products and services, and signified their adherence to the program and government requirements.

All forums in two provinces concluded with shared commitments among suppliers, SLPA officers, and local officials to uphold integrity, fairness, and efficiency in project implementation.

DSWD reinforces its commitment to partnership, transparency, and sustainability through sourcing goods and services from local suppliers, the program not only supports its participants but also stimulates the local economy, fostering inclusive growth across the region.