Fresh trade tools sustain trainees’ livelihood

Malampaya Foundation Inc. (MFI), the social development arm of the Malampaya Joint Venture, has been supporting skills development of Northwest Palawan, Oriental Mindoro and Batangas community members since 2014.

The practical, income-generating skills include carpentry, masonry, electrical installation and maintenance, small engine repair, shielded metal arc welding, solar installation, sewing, and grooming and wellness services.

On top of the skills training, the foundation provided the trainees with the tools they need to help them further improve their work, productivity, and earning capacity.

In recent weeks, MFI provided brand-new, high-quality tools and materials to former skills trainees in Taytay, Rizal and El Nido, Palawan — individuals who have successfully turned their training into sustainable livelihoods.

“A fresh set of tools can make a big difference in keeping livelihoods going,” read MFI’s Facebook post announcing the turnover of the tools.

“Skills create opportunities. The right tools help turn those opportunities into lasting livelihoods,” it adds.

The tools turnover ceremony in Taytay were graced by Mayor Norbert Lim, Vice Mayor Delma Edep, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) member Alvino Yara, and Municipal Employment Services manager Rolando Belarmino Jr.  

Joining the El Nido turnover were Vice Mayor Joel Rosento, SB members Val Austria and Leonor Corral, and Municipal Employment Services Office head Cindy Palomar.