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Many establishments are greatly affected with the ongoing health pandemic. Small enterprises are among the badly hit as they have exhausted reserved resources during the lockdown. After the lift of the lockdown, many stores were not able to operate again.

But for All Rice SLPA at Brgy. Kalagangan, San Fernando, Bukidnon, their Community Store has to work through the lockdown and face many challenges like restrictions as they serve their Indigenous People (IP) community situated in a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA).

Extra measures were added by the SLP association to reduce the risk of transmission between the customers and the store operators.

The SLPA adapted the health protocols for COVID – 19 pandemic prevention such as wearing of face masks and physical distancing, but one notable initiative they did was installation of a wash area outside of their store where the customers could wash their hands; and plastic cellophanes were placed within their vicinity. The need for balance with economic needs and health safety would depend on the precautions set by local authorities and compliance of establishments. The association officers have taken these initiatives into themselves so that they can continue operating and serving their community.

Installing a handwash facility is to reinforce the message of having to frequently clean our hands in reducing the risk of virus transmission.

Their project has been operational for almost two (2) years already and have been growing ever since they opened up. It was originally a rice retailing store which was then expanded into a community store.

Composed of 40 members from Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, 21 of the association members are members of the Matsulog tribe. The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 10 has always been prioritizing the marginalized and vulnerable in its programs and services. These identified groups, especially if they belong to poor households, are provided with opportunities to increase their earning capacities in becoming self-sufficient families. Their adaptation to new technologies and health safety measures ensures that IP communities continue to thrive in the modern world.

This Global Handwashing Day, we put great emphasis on the general public the importance to wash their hands with soap properly (at least 20 seconds) and frequently, especially during this pandemic. We can only end this with the cooperation of every individual. More important so the proper wearing of face masks, observance of physical distancing, and to stay at home except for essential errands.

All Rice SLPA is composed majorly with Pantawid household members from the Matsulog tribe. Adaptation ensure continuing existence of our IP communities.

May All Rice SLPA serve as a good example for all other SLP projects when it comes to hygiene promotion and disaster responsiveness.

Story and photos contributed by Ivanne Jay Zafra, Project Development Officer II