The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-X (RTWPB-X) on 22 April 2026 conducted productivity training sessions for indigenous peoples (IPs) who were also beneficiaries of livelihood assistance.

The training covered the Work Ethics of a Productive Worker, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, responsibility, and positive work values essential in managing sustainable enterprises.

Participants were likewise provided with basic knowledge on marketing strategies and practical financial management tips, including proper budgeting, savings, and handling business finances to help ensure the long-term sustainability of their livelihood projects.

Prior to the training, Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Region No. X turned over several livelihood assistance programs to beneficiaries in Brgy. Lanise, Claveria, Misamis Oriental.

Beneficiaries of the programs were enrolled under the Assistance to Lumads through Interventions from Multiple Agencies (ALIMA) Program of DOLE X and the Project Portfolio on Productivity Initiatives for Workers and Enterprises of the RTWPB-X which focuses on Bamboo, Tourism, and Hospitality Industries.

All projects were funded under the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) and implemented in partnership with the Balubal Integrated Social Forestry Farmers Association and other local stakeholders.

The turnover activity highlighted the government’s commitment to empower communities, especially Indigenous Peoples Organizations (IPOs) and women’s groups, through sustainable livelihood opportunities that promote productivity, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.

Among the livelihood projects turned over were:

Bamboo Furniture Production Project awarded to the Lanise Higaonon Tribal Association (LAHITA) with a total project cost of ₱500,000, wherein DOLE provided ₱400,000 assistance and the association contributed ₱100,000 counterpart. The initiative aims to strengthen bamboo-based enterprises while preserving indigenous craftsmanship and creating additional income opportunities for the community.

Consumer Store Project granted to the Lanise Women’s Association with a total project cost of ₱250,000, including ₱200,000 from DOLE and ₱50,000 counterpart from the organization. The project is expected to improve access to affordable basic commodities while enhancing the entrepreneurial capacity of women beneficiaries.

E-Trading of Basic Goods Project was awarded to the Kaliwatan Hu Tribu Olinan Association with a total project cost of ₱500,000, of which ₱400,000 was provided by DOLE and ₱100,000 by the proponent organization. The project seeks to introduce innovative and technology-driven marketing strategies for local products and basic commodities.

The enrolled programs under the DOLE X ALIMA initiative are aligned with RTWPB-X’s productivity enhancement agenda, particularly in promoting bamboo enterprises and community-based livelihood ventures connected to tourism and hospitality development. Through these initiatives, beneficiaries are expected to improve their productivity, strengthen community enterprises, and generate sustainable employment opportunities.

DOLE Region X said the turnover of these livelihood packages is more than just the provision of equipment and capital assistance; it is an investment in the resilience, creativity, and future of local communities. The agency also reiterated its commitment to continuously assist workers’ organizations and community groups through capability-building, productivity enhancement, and enterprise development programs.

The beneficiaries, likewise, expressed their gratitude to DOLE and partner agencies for the opportunity to uplift their economic condition and provide a brighter future for their families and communities. (Bernie Boy T. Salinas)