THE DEPARTMENT of Labor and Employment Regional Office XI (DOLE XI) officially turned over P1.5 million in financial support to the Bantay Dagat Volunteers Association of Davao through its accredited co-partner, the Alagad sa Kinaiyahan Credit Cooperative, to support their sustainable plastic Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R) enterprise development project.
The turnover ceremony, held at the association’s recycling facility in Macleod, Daliao, Toril, Davao City, marked a significant step in the organization’s efforts to promote environmental sustainability while providing livelihood opportunities to its members. The assistance was granted through DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood Program (ILP), which aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of marginalized sectors by supporting community-based enterprises.
DOLE XI regional director Atty. Randolf Pensoy was represented by livelihood focal person Iza Beth C. Villareal, who led the turnover of the financial assistance to the Bantay Dagat Volunteers Association, emphasizing the government’s commitment to empowering communities engaged in environmental protection. She highlighted the importance of sustainable livelihood projects in addressing plastic waste management while fostering economic opportunities for local volunteers.
“We are honored to support the Bantay Dagat Volunteers Association in their mission to protect marine resources while simultaneously creating income-generating initiatives through sustainable plastic waste recycling,” Villareal said.
The Bantay Dagat Volunteers Association plays a crucial role in safeguarding coastal and marine ecosystems in Davao. With the support from DOLE XI, the organization aims to expand its plastic 3R enterprise by acquiring equipment, enhancing production capacity, and increasing community awareness on responsible waste management.
Leaders of the association, headed by its president Raffy Bermejo, expressed their gratitude to DOLE XI, stating that the assistance would significantly contribute to their sustainability efforts and help improve the livelihoods of their members.
The event was attended by DOLE-XI livelihood development specialists Marry Glocel C. Cantones and Eugene C. Cain, the officer-in-charge of the Ancillary Services Unit of Davao City, Paul Bermejo, the officers and members of the Bantay Dagat Volunteers Association, and representatives from the Alagad sa Kinaiyahan Credit Cooperative.
The initiative aligns with the government’s broader advocacy for environmental conservation and economic empowerment, ensuring that communities benefit from sustainable and responsible enterprise development.
