ISABELA CITY, Basilan, Sept. 30 (PIA) – In a bid to support local businesses affected by the implementation of Executive Order (EO) 39 on rice price capping, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently provided cash assistance to 15 micro rice retailers in Isabela City.

The payout event took place at the City Hall's Sakayan Hall and was carried out in coordination with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office (LEDIPO).

Among the beneficiaries was Nilo S. Patiño, a rice vendor retailer in Isabela City. He expressed his disappointment on the impact of the price cap which incurred losses to them.

"The price was affected and we incurred losses of more than 3,000 pesos," he said.

Hja. Nursida Taradji-Sarail, Project Development Officer of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region IX explained that the assistance program seeks to alleviate the financial burden faced by micro rice retailers due to the mandated price cap and by extending this support, the DSWD aims to ensure the sustainability and viability of these small businesses amidst economic challenges.

"These cash assistance initiatives are part of our commitment to providing aid and support for micro rice retailers who have been significantly affected by the rice price cap," she stated.

PDO Sarail  added that through collaborative efforts with DTI and LEDIPO, DSWD strives to empower and uplift local businesses, particularly during these challenging times.

Furthermore, Sarail stressed that in addition to financial assistance, the DSWD is also exploring other avenues to support micro rice retailers such as training programs, market access facilitation, and networking opportunities. The DSWD also encourages other micro rice retailers in Isabela City who have been affected by the rice price cap to reach out and apply for the cash assistance program. The department remains committed to assisting and empowering local entrepreneurs in their journey towards economic recovery and sustainability.(RVC/NDR/RFN-PIABasilan)