MAMBURAO, OCCIDENTAL MINDORO – The DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA proudly highlights the products made by Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) participants as it joins the ongoing 10-day Arawatan Agri-Tourism Trade Fair at the Tennis Court Parking Area, Capitol Complex, from November 14 to 23, 2025.

The SLP booth features a wide range of locally crafted items, from beadwork such as ID laces, pen holders, necklaces, and bracelets crafted by Nagkakaisang Tribong Hanunuo at Buhid SLPA, handwoven brooms, to homegrown food products like gourmet squid, peanut butter, coco jam, chili oil, alamang, atsara, cheesecakes, pastillas, and other pasalubong goodies, all solely made by the SLP participants.

In addition, three (3) individual SLP-assisted entrepreneurs have set up their own booths to showcase and sell their very own unique products. 

Andrea Benoya of Te And’s Handicrafts markets its high-quality bead creations, Marilyn Reyes of Magnus Crafts and Charms and Magnus Food Products offers handmade accessories with gems and assorted locally produced jams, and Grace Dinglasan of Rich Blitz a popular source of pasalubong treats, sells pastillas, assorted cake bites, cookies, and more.

Each of them received Php 15,000.00 livelihood assistance from SLP in 2023, which helped them expand their existing enterprises. 

Today, they continue to sustain and grow their businesses, confidently participating in trade fairs as independent exhibitors, a testament of their hard work and determination.

Moreover, to help address the spread of fake news and misinformation, the Department also rolls out its Tamang Tulong sa Tamang Impormasyon (3Ti) communications campaign during the event. 

Jean Connery S. Ceralde, Social Marketing Officer engages booth visitors reminding them to carefully check whether any information they encounter comes from credible and official sources and to follow only legitimate sites and social media pages to access accurate, timely, and relevant updates, and explains that correct information is crucial to ensure that beneficiaries receive the appropriate interventions and services they need from the Department.

The Arawatan Festival, an annual celebration of culture, unity, and resilience is one of the most anticipated traditions in Occidental Mindoro. With the theme “AGRIKULTURISMO: Tatak at Tatag ng Kanlurang Mindoro”, this year is particularly special as it marks the 75th Founding Anniversary of the province. 

Rooted in the Mangyan word “arawatan” which means cooperation and solidarity, the celebration features vibrant cultural performances, agri-tourism exhibits, trade fairs, and community activities that showcase the province’s agricultural heritage, indigenous craftsmanship, and shared commitment toward sustainable and inclusive development.