In the Philippines, the right to socio-economic progress is a constitutional mandate. To address poverty and unemployment, the government, primarily through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), provides structured livelihood assistance programs. These programs are governed by specific administrative orders and circulars that outline eligibility, application processes, and the nature of the assistance.
I. DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP)
The SLP is a capability-building program that seeks to improve the socio-economic status of marginalized Filipino households. It is generally categorized into two tracks: Micro-enterprise Development and Employment Facilitation.
1. Eligibility Criteria
Participation is generally prioritized for:
- Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries.
- Listahanan-identified poor households.
- Vulnerable sectors, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Senior Citizens, and Indigenous Peoples (IPs).
2. The Application Process
The SLP follows a community-based participatory approach:
- Social Preparation: Prospective beneficiaries undergo orientation and basic management training.
- Modality Selection: Applicants choose between a Seed Capital Fund (for starting a business) or an Employment Facilitation Fund (for job-seeking expenses).
- Project Proposal: For micro-enterprises, a simplified business plan must be submitted and approved by the DSWD Regional Project Management Office.
- Grant Release: Once approved, the grant is released through a formal turnover, often to a Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA).
3. Documentary Requirements
- Government-issued ID.
- Certificate of Residency from the Barangay.
- Endorsement from the Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO).
II. DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) or "Kabuhayan" Program
The DILP is the flagship program of DOLE designed to reduce the vulnerability to risks of the poor and marginalized workers by providing them with access to a grant for livelihood undertakings.
1. Targeted Beneficiaries
The program targets "informal sector" workers, including:
- Self-employed workers with insufficient income.
- Displaced workers or those who lost their jobs due to calamities or business closures.
- Parents of child laborers.
- Senior citizens and PWDs who are fit to work.
2. Types of Assistance
- Kabuhayan Restoration: For those whose existing livelihoods were damaged by disasters.
- Kabuhayan Formation: For those who wish to start a brand new small business.
- Kabuhayan Enhancement: For existing businesses that need additional equipment or raw materials to grow.
3. Application Procedure
Unlike the DSWD's community focus, DOLE often works through Accredited Co-Partners (ACPs), such as People’s Organizations, Cooperatives, or Local Government Units (LGUs).
- Step 1: Inquiry and Profile. Visit the nearest DOLE Field or Regional Office to submit a profile form.
- Step 2: Training. Attend the mandatory Entrepreneurship Development Training (EDT).
- Step 3: Submission of Proposal. Submit a business project proposal. If applying as a group, the ACP handles the submission.
- Step 4: Evaluation. DOLE technical staff will conduct a site inspection and evaluate the feasibility of the project.
- Step 5: Awarding. Assistance is usually provided in the form of "equipment and raw materials" rather than direct cash to ensure the funds are used for the intended business.
III. Key Legal and Administrative Differences
| Feature | DSWD (SLP) | DOLE (DILP) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Poverty alleviation for the "poorest of the poor." | Support for "informal and displaced workers." |
| Primary Link | Often linked to 4Ps beneficiaries. | Often linked to labor unions, cooperatives, or LGUs. |
| Form of Grant | Seed Capital Fund (Cash or Credit). | Tools, Jigs, Equipment, and Raw Materials. |
| Supervision | Under the DSWD Regional Office. | Under the DOLE Regional/Field Office. |
IV. Prohibitions and Accountability
Under Philippine law, specifically the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act (R.A. 3019) and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials (R.A. 6713), the following are strictly prohibited:
- Solicitation of Fees: These government programs are free. Any official asking for a "processing fee" or a percentage of the grant is committing a criminal act.
- Political Patronage: Assistance must be based on the established eligibility criteria, not on political affiliation or endorsement.
- Misuse of Funds: Beneficiaries who use the livelihood grants for personal consumption (e.g., gambling, luxury items) instead of the approved business may be disqualified from future government assistance and may face civil or administrative liability.
V. Contact Information for Applicants
To initiate the process, individuals are advised to visit:
- For DSWD: The City or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office at the local City/Town Hall.
- For DOLE: The nearest DOLE Provincial or Regional Office, or the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) in their locality.