Capacity development has always been at the heart of the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Beyond providing seed capital funds, SLP ensures that its participants are equipped with knowledge, skills, and confidence to sustain and grow their livelihood enterprises. This is why capability-building activities and inter-agency collaborations play a vital role in helping SLP Associations (SLPAs) become more resilient, competitive, and market-ready.

One example of this continuing effort is the recent participation of eight (8) SLPAs in Apayao in the Kapatid Mentor Micro Enterprise – Money Market Encounter (KMME-MME) Online Program, a mentoring initiative of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship (PCE). Their representatives proudly received their Certificates of Completion during the provincial graduation held on 20 August 2025, in Quirino, Luna, Apayao.

Marking an important development in their entrepreneurial journey, this accomplishment is more than a recognition of hard work—it is a testament to how far these associations have come since being organized under SLP. Through the Program’s continued support and partnership with DTI and PCE, the SLPA members were given the opportunity to expand their entrepreneurial knowledge and strengthen their livelihood enterprises toward sustainability.

Guided by DTI–Apayao, the participants, together with other micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners, underwent a five-month intensive learning journey composed of ten (10) modules. These sessions included workshops, coaching, and mentoring that deepened their understanding of business management, financial literacy, marketing, and enterprise sustainability. Mentors from various business and government sectors provided hands-on guidance and shared real-world insights, allowing participants to craft Business Improvement Plans (BIPs) that are both practical and visionary.

For the SLPAs, this opportunity served as a bridge from starting a business to sustaining and growing an enterprise. Many of them began as beneficiaries of the DSWD’s SLP Seed Capital Fund, organized into associations that have since evolved into promising micro-enterprises. Through programs like KMME-MME, SLP participants gain access to learning experiences that help them manage their resources better, enhance product quality, and become more competitive in the market.

During the ceremony, the perseverance and dedication of the SLPA participants were celebrated as six (6) graduates received special awards. From Santa Marcela, Apayao, Jing Jing Dela Cruz, Bhenelyn Julian, and Awingan Domingo received the Perseverance Award, while Racquel Pasion, Asher Wakit, and Jinky Gumaboy from Conner, Apayao were honored with the Dedication Award. Their achievements reflected not only individual commitment but also the collective effort of their associations to pursue growth and sustainability.

In her inspirational message, Wena M. Buston, DTI Apayao Provincial Director, commended the graduates and encouraged them to put their learning into practice. She reminded them that success begins with action:

“A plan without action is just a dream. Let your Business Improvement Plans not just remain on paper, but be implemented so you can truly realize your dreams and become successful. Your entrepreneurial journey does not end here—it is the beginning of a new chapter”, Buston said.

For SLP graduate and ISAP SLPA President Jinky B. Gumaboy, the experience was both humbling and empowering. She expressed gratitude for the opportunity made possible through DSWD and DTI:

“Agyamanak ta maysa ak kadagiti nagradute ket sapay koma ta daytuy nga naadal ko ket mairamid ko ken misurok kadagiti co-members ko. Dakel nga tulong daytoy kanyak. Agyamanak met iti DSWD nga isuda ti angel mi, isuda ti nangted iti grant kadakami nga 4Ps beneficiaries… Sapay koma ta han kayo maumuma nga mangsubaybay kadakami. God bless”, Gumaboy said.

Her message captures the essence of the Sustainable Livelihood Program—empowering people not just through financial assistance, but through sustained guidance, linkages, and opportunities for growth. By continuously collaborating with institutions like DTI and PCE, SLP ensures that its participants are not left behind but are equipped to adapt, compete, and thrive in a changing business environment.

The KMME-MME Online Program is one of DTI’s flagship initiatives in partnership with PCE, designed to enhance the capacity of micro and small entrepreneurs through mentorship, money, and market opportunities.

DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten, PhD, said “For our SLPAs, this journey goes beyond learning new business skills. It’s about discovering their own potential, building confidence in what they can achieve, and inspiring their communities to grow and move forward together.”

Through partnerships like this, the DSWD FO CAR reaffirms its commitment to helping families and communities build sustainable sources of income. Each milestone achieved by SLPAs in Apayao tells a story of perseverance, hope, and transformation—proof that with the right support, empowerment can turn small beginnings into lasting success.#DSWD FO CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, Joanna Marie M. Caponpon-Apostol, PDO II – SLP Social Marketing Officer, with Matthew A. Binoclod, Jr. PDO II, SWAD Apayao-SLP.