CEBU CITY, Cebu, Feb. 21 (PIA) -- The Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office 7 (DOLE-7) together with the Barangay Local Government Unit (BLGU) of Catarman, Liloan, Cebu turned over the general merchandise and fishing supplies worth P374,620 to the 61-member Catarman Fishermen’s Association. 

Association President Noe Ursal thanked DOLE-7 for fulfilling the long-held dream of the fishermen and their association.

“Dako ug kasingkasing namong pasalamat unang-una sa kahitas-an ug sa DOLE-7 pinaagi sa Cebu Provincial Field Office (CPFO) nga niabot gayod ang dugay na namong gipangandoy nag Kabuhayan Grant nga general merchandise and fishing supplies (Our heartfelt thanks to God and to DOLE-7 through the CPFO that they have realized our longtime dream of general merchandise and fishing supplies through the Kabuhayan Grant)," said Ursal. 

The livelihood grant brought hope to the association as most of their boats were destroyed by Super Typhoon Odette. 

Ursal assured DOLE 7 and the BLGU that they will nurture and develop the livelihood project.

“Among ipasalig sa DOLE 7 ug sa Barangay nga kining maong proyekto among amumahon ug palambuon aron kini molungtad ug makatabang kanamo ug sa kumunidad (We assure DOLE-7 and the Barangay that we will develop this project to make it sustainable and help our community)," he added. 

CPFO Officer-in-Charge Vivencio Lagahid of DOLE-7 emphasized the importance of unity among the members.

"The members should work hand-in-hand and remain steadfast in the face of challenges as great accomplishments come from peace and balance," he said.

Lagahid added that the Kabuhayan Grant, when cultivated and sustained, can provide a long-term source of income for them and their families.

The DOLE Integrated Livelihood Project continues to help marginalized groups who earn insufficient income. (JSME/PIA7 with reports from DOLE-7)