Women in Negros Occidental trained to improve their skills in managing livelihood projects, aiming for financial independence and long-term sustainability.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), in partnership with the Negros Occidental provincial government and the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), organized a workshop for members of the Kapatiran Women’s Association (KWA) from Barangay Locotan, Kabankalan City, and Barangay Talacdan, Cauayan.
Held on February 13-14 in Kabankalan City, the event equipped participants with livelihood skills and strengthened peacebuilding initiatives in the province.
The training focused on financial management, proper documentation, and sustainability strategies for government-backed livelihood initiatives. Organizers emphasized accountability and efficient fund utilization, addressing concerns about the effectiveness of previous community-driven projects.
Kapatiran, formerly the Revolutionary Proletarian Army–Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB), rebranded as part of a peace agreement with the government. The group transitioned from armed struggle to community-based initiatives, with livelihood programs playing a crucial role in their reintegration efforts.
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April Casalem, OPAPRU Coordinator for Southern Negros, said the training aimed to equip participants with practical business skills.
“Many livelihood programs fail due to poor planning and monitoring,” Casalem said. “This training helped participants recognize market trends, enhance their products, and develop strategies for sustainability.”
While participants welcomed the training, some raised concerns about challenges such as limited access to resources and the need for continuous support.
The long-term success of the initiative will depend on consistent support and market opportunities.
Grassroots organizations often face challenges in sustaining livelihood projects due to inconsistent funding and economic instability.
While the long-term impact of this training on KWA members is yet to be determined, their participation reflects a vital move toward financial independence and meaningful reintegration into mainstream society.
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.