The Kabuhayan Program of the Department of Labor and Employment has been better implemented to ensure that more underprivileged workers can benefit from the initiative.

This was emphasized by DOLE secretary Bienvenido E. Laguesma during the 2023 Kabuhayan Awards in Paranaque City, on 14 November, an annual recognition of DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program beneficiaries who have successfully managed DOLE-assisted livelihood projects.

"In June 2023, DOLE issued Department Order No. 239 Series of 2023 which simplified, shortened, and reduced the processes and documents required to obtain assistance under DILP and TUPAD (Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers Program)," Laguesma said.

Laguesma added that the agency expanded the scope and benefits of the program.

"The benefit and scope of the program has been expanded… DOLE has strengthened the relationship with the various branches of the government and the private sector to improve the implementation of the program," Laguesma stated.

Under the DILP program, beneficiaries are given working capital through raw materials, equipment, tools, and common service facilities. Beneficiaries are also provided with personal protective equipment and micro-insurance, seminars on basic occupational safety and health and emergency first-aid, and various training on productivity and entrepreneurship to ensure the sustainability of their livelihood undertakings.

The Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns has instituted a recognition and awards system for implementers and beneficiaries through the Kabuhayan Awards.

Among this year's outstanding individual DILP beneficiaries were Renier B. Mag-abo from Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte for his engraving and lapida-making business (champion), Melfo O. Bitor from Sogod, Southern Leyte for her street food vending business (1st runner-up), and Dolores G. Casem from Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya for her healthy foods processing venture (2nd runner-up).

A plaque of recognition and a monetary award of P50,000 for the champion, P40,000 for the first runner-up, and P30,000 for the second runner-up were given to each winner.

Meanwhile, the Tayak Agri-Fishery Producers Association from Abulug, Cagayan, for their venture into mushroom production (champion), the Del Pilar Makugihon Fishing Association from Socorro, Surigao Del Norte, for their general merchandise project (first runner-up), and the REHOBOTH Agriculture Cooperative for their venture into chocolate processing (second runner-up) were hailed as the best DOLE-assisted livelihood projects under the group category.

Each group received a plaque of recognition and a cash prize amounting to P100,000 for the champion, P80,000 for the 1st runner-up, and P60,000 for the 2nd runner-up.