Quezon city livelihood project benefits 4,500 residents
In a heartwarming initiative, Quezon City 5th District Councilor Alfred Vargas proudly revealed the success of his office’s livelihood program, which has reached over 4,500 residents. This approach has transformed lives in the district, providing crucial support and opportunities for those seeking better futures.
A Comprehensive Approach
The livelihood program concentrates on three essential components: organizing regular job fairs for employment opportunities, offering capital to aspiring entrepreneurs, and providing vocational training to enhance skills. Vargas emphasized the impact of these efforts, noting that more than 1,000 residents secured jobs thanks to the job fairs, and over 2,500 received financial support to launch small businesses.
In collaboration with TESDA, a vocational training module called “Asenso Vocational” was developed, teaching residents valuable skills in areas such as meat processing and soap making. This knowledge has enabled many to establish their own online businesses, with guidance on using social media for marketing their products.
Inspiring Success Stories
The program has yielded impressive success stories. One individual who previously collected scrap materials now operates a junk shop. A vendor known for selling chicharon can now afford to send his children to school. Furthermore, a seamstress who received a sewing machine is now supplying uniforms and towels to various companies. Some beneficiaries report earning an additional P500 to P700 monthly through their ventures, which Vargas highlighted as significant for many families.
“That extra income helps pay electricity, water bills, or buy diapers and milk. It may not be too much for some, but for families, it has a big positive impact,” Vargas stated.
Empowering Women and Families
The program particularly stands out in its support for stay-at-home mothers, empowering them to launch their own businesses. These women take pride in creating products like perfumes, which not only generate income but also allow them to pursue their passions while caring for their households.
Photos courtesy of Alfred Vargas’ Facebook page
“They’re proud to create something of their own… It’s not just income; they are able to follow their passion and provide comfort for their households at the same time,” Vargas added.
Through a partnership with TESDA and DOLE, the program has made a difference for the urban poor and persons with disabilities, helping them start small businesses or find stable employment.
Ongoing Support and Mentorship
Councilor Vargas emphasizes the importance of long-term support for beneficiaries, which includes a mentorship system developed with his brother, Congressman PM Vargas.
“Hindi lang kami nagbibigay ng startup capital at pagkatapos ay pababayaan na. Nagbuo tayo ng mentor-student system kung saan sinusubaybayan ang kanilang progreso, at tinutulungan silang malampasan ang mga hamon. Dahil sa ganitong approach, ang mga simpleng simula ay naging matatag na kabuhayan,” Vargas explained.
The rising number of beneficiaries demonstrates Vargas’ commitment to enhancing the lives of Quezon City residents, as he reflects on the impact of even small amounts of additional income.
“Kahit maliit na dagdag kita, malaki ang epekto sa mga pamilya. Makikita mo sa kanilang mata ang kaluwagan na kanilang natatamasa, ang pag-asa na kanilang nakikita. Iyon ang dahilan kung bakit ito ay isa sa mga programang tunay naming ipinagmamalaki,” he stated.
A Legacy of Advocacy
Vargas’ dedication to providing livelihoods is not new. During his time as a congressman from 2013 to 2022, he championed the Tulong Trabaho Act (Republic Act No. 11230), signed into law in 2019, strengthening his commitment to workforce development and support for the community.
