More than 800 women in Odiongan, all members of the Odiongan Council for Women (OCW), are set to benefit from the recent livelihood project initiated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Romblon in this town.
Through its Integrated Livelihood Program, DOLE provided 20 sewing machines, various fabrics, and other essential sewing materials to OCW, amounting to almost P1.5 million.
According to Odiongan Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic, this assistance supplements the sewing machines previously provided by the local government unit and a private non-government organization to OCW. They now has 44 sewing machines distributed across 24 barangays in Odiongan, where women's associations are engaged in tailoring businesses.
“Government assistance like this is a huge help for us because whenever we need to sew something for our business or personal use, we can use the machines provided by DOLE for free,” Firmalo said.
“The OCW's goal is really to empower women who don't have jobs to start businesses instead of just staying at home and doing nothing. Before, we could only produce a limited number of products, but now we can produce more because our machines have increased,” she added.
Glory Lee Foja, DOLE Romblon's focal person for DILIP, expressed hope that the project would benefit both the beneficiaries' families and the organization. She hopes that the Odiongan Local Council for Women and the town itself will be recognized in areas known for producing ready-to-wear garments.
Foja also encouraged the group not to hesitate to approach DOLE, as they are ready to assist with any proposed projects for the sewing community.
The distribution of livelihood assistance is part of DOLE's activities in celebration of Labor Day, aiming to recognize laborers across the country.
