MANILA - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced an enhancement of its support programs aimed at assisting Filipinos who are experiencing crises, such as job loss, with a particular focus on those affected by recent spikes in unemployment rates linked to the El Niño phenomenon.
According to Philippines News Agency, the unemployment rate rose from 3.5 percent in February to 3.9 percent in March, notably in the agricultural sector. In response, DSWD spokesperson and Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG), Irene Dumlao, stated that affected individuals could access various DSWD services, pending eligibility assessments by social workers. "Through these programs, we aim to help jobless Filipinos by enhancing their skills and competencies, and providing them with resources to access income-generating opportunities, thereby improving their socio-economic well-being," Dumlao explained in a news release.
The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) is one such initiative designed to support economically vulnerable households. It offers two tracks: micro-enterprise development, which helps small businesses become viable, and employment facilitation, which aids in securing suitable job placements. Participants in the SLP may receive support such as seed capital, cash-for-building-livelihood-assets, skills training, and employment-assistance funds, which cover various employment-related expenses.
Additionally, Dumlao highlighted the DSWD’s Project LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) and BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished), which provide training and work opportunities that focus on mitigating food insecurity and water scarcity during drought conditions. Beneficiaries of these projects receive compensation at the regional minimum wage rate for their involvement.
Moreover, the DSWD offers the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, which provides immediate aid such as food, cash, medical, and educational support to those affected by crises, including job loss. The delivery of AICS benefits is contingent upon assessments by DSWD social workers.
Through these reinforced measures, the DSWD aims to facilitate the recovery and socio-economic stabilization of affected individuals and families across the Philippines.