The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Project LAWA at BINHI, was recognized as one of the key collaborators in the recent Buwan ng Magsasaka at Mangingisda celebration led by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources – Cordillera Administrative Region (BFAR-CAR). During the event, the Monggayang Farmers and Fisher Folks Organization (MFF), a partner-beneficiary under the project, was honored for its efforts. Among those recognized was Roselle Layona, a farmer-fisher and a partner-beneficiary—her story standing as a testament to the power of inter-agency collaboration and strong community involvement.
Before Project LAWA at BINHI was introduced in Barangay Monggayang, families like Layona’s faced seasonal challenges in farming. “We didn’t have any extra income during the summer when our kids were on school break. But with the 20-day work program of the DSWD, we were able to earn enough for school supplies,” she shared. The initiative provided a timely and practical solution by combining short-term cash-for-work with long-term food production strategies.
Layona emphasized that the project has evolved beyond short-term aid. “It has become a platform for learning, livelihood, and building community strength. If we continue to improve our gardens and fishponds, they can become sustainable sources of income. It’s not just about earning anymore—it’s about discovering who truly has a passion for farming,” she said.
Through Project LAWA at BINHI, agencies such as the DSWD and BFAR have not only extended financial support, but have also consistently provided technical assistance through trainings, seminars, and input distribution. “These programs ensure that no one is left behind,” Layona noted. “I’m truly grateful to both agencies. Their support doesn’t stop—it keeps growing and reaching more people.”
Eumic Culimay, Provincial Fisheries Officer of Ifugao, shared a similar perspective. He remarked that while Project LAWA at BINHI may still be small, its impact is far-reaching. “When beneficiaries take ownership of the initiative and build on it, this kind of model becomes a sustainable source of livelihood. It may seem modest now, but it has the power to inspire more communities,” he said.
Culimay also highlighted the project’s inclusivity. “We don’t usually get the chance to work with many grassroots organizations. But through this project, we’ve reached groups that we wouldn’t normally be able to engage with—that’s already a big success.”
He added that success isn’t just measured by results but by the lessons communities learn in the process. “There will be challenges, but the skills and knowledge gained through continuous training and experience will empower our beneficiaries to thrive,” he said.
In recognizing MFF under Project LAWA at BINHI, BFAR-CAR honors not only a community but a shared vision—where technical support, community efforts, and agency collaboration converge to uplift the lives of farmers and fisher folk. Project LAWA at BINHI serves as a strong example of what can be achieved when communities and agencies work hand in hand toward a common goal.# DSWD-CAR Social Marketing Unit – Novelle G. Ongat, Information Officer II, Disaster Response & Management Division and Wreyn Franzelle A. Pariñas, DSWD Government Internship Program 2nd Year BA Communication – University of the Philippines-Baguio
