Under the warm October sun, members of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) National Program Management Office (NPMO) observed the hum of small yet thriving community enterprises across Northern Mindanao — from rice retailing and copra trading to farming and general merchandise stores that embody the spirit of resilience among Filipino families.
From October 12 to 18, 2025, the NPMO team conducted its Calendar Year 2025 Field Implementation Check in Region X, focusing on the provinces of Lanao del Norte and Camiguin. The activity aimed to assess the progress of SLP projects and ensure that livelihood interventions continue to promote sustainable income and resilience among families and associations.
In Lanao del Norte, the team visited three (3) Sustainable Livelihood Program Associations (SLPAs) and two (2) individual participants, while in Camiguin, they checked on four (4) SLPAs and one (1) individual participant implementing various microenterprise projects. The field validation included on-site inspections, document reviews, and focused group discussions with beneficiaries.
The NPMO Team, composed of Ms. Miriam T. Teves (Team Leader), Ms. Azalea Denise L. Aporado (Operations Division), and Mr. Richard Anthony L. Dizon (Technical Support Division), was joined by SLP personnel from other regions — Mr. John Paul V. Ranga (Field Office III), Mr. Jormar B. Valenzuela (Field Office V), Ms. Al-minah N. Solaiman (Field Office NCR), Ms. Cherry R. Arjona (Field Office I), Ms. Jenyrose M. Rodriguez (Field Office I), Mr. Mark Gil L. Aban (Field Office IV-B), and Mr. Elvin M. Figuracion (Field Office VII).
They worked closely with the SLP Regional Program Management Office (RPMO) of DSWD Field Office X, headed by Mr. Rhandy L. Ladoroz, with the support of provincial Project Development Officers (PDOs) and the Provincial Coordinators — Mr. Abecia Melgar Rellon for Camiguin, and Mr. Tener Richard Ramayrat for Lanao del Norte — who provided on-ground assistance and coordination during the field validation activities.
Throughout the visits, the team witnessed how SLPAs across the provinces continue to demonstrate perseverance and innovation despite limitations. One notable finding from the exit conference revealed that some associations face challenges in engaging partner agencies. Several groups remain unaware of other government and private institutions that can provide assistance, relying primarily on the SLP for support.
Another observation highlighted that some SLPAs were unable to maximize their income despite generating significant profit. While their earnings could have served as capital for expansion or the start of new ventures, limited financial management and planning have kept some associations from reaching their full potential.
Still, the field validation uncovered stories of transformation and hope. Some associations have shown outstanding progress in managing their operations — among them, one SLPA that was awarded 3rd place among the Top 3 National Finalists in the Gawad Sulong 2025 under the Zero Hunger category. Their success serves as a testament to how continuous support, training, and determination can turn small community projects into sustainable enterprises.
“These visits allow us to see the realities of the program at the community level,” said Rhandy L. Ladoroz, SLP Regional Program Coordinator for Northern Mindanao. “It is through this process that we identify what works, what needs to improve, and how we can better empower our beneficiaries moving forward.”
The Field Implementation Check also reinforces the ongoing rollout of the Five-Year Livelihood Sustainability Plan, which guides SLP participants through progressive stages — from start-up and capacity building to growth, sustainability, and recognition.
Through initiatives like this, the DSWD-SLP reaffirms its commitment to strengthening livelihood programs, supporting families and associations not only to earn but to thrive — turning community efforts into sustainable change for Northern Mindanao.
The activity was conducted under the leadership of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, through the Sustainable Livelihood Program – National Program Management Office (NPMO), in partnership with DSWD Field Office X, headed by Rhandy L. Ladoroz, SLP Regional Program Coordinator, with the assistance of the Project Development Officers (PDOs), Mr. Abecia Melgar Rellon (Provincial Coordinator for Camiguin), and Mr. Tener Richard Ramayrat (Provincial Coordinator for Lanao del Norte), who provided vital support in ensuring the success of the field validation.