By DIANN IVY CALUCIN
More livelihood and assistance programs were implemented in Navotas City during the first 100 days of the administration of Mayor John Rey Tiangco, the local government reported on Thursday, Oct. 13.
First, the city government launched the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Worker (TUPAD) in the city, which gave short-term employment to 3,685 Navoteños.
Meanwhile, 40 residents joined the Navotas Government Apprenticeship Program while 37 residents were listed in DOLE's Government Internship Program.
The city government also signed a partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) to provide 20 registered fisherfolk with fishing gear such as fishing nets, bottom set gill nets with nylon monoline, lead sinkers, and hard rubber floats.
In line with this, some 450 fishing boat owners received fuel subsidies from the agency.
The local government also provided skills training and seminars for entrepreneurs and aspiring ones in the city.
“We cannot emphasize enough the significance of having gainful employment and stable income,” Tiangco said.
He said over 905 residents participated in Navotas Vocational Training and Assessment (NAVOTAAS) Hanapbuhay Center's Hanapbuhay Caravans and Tulong Trabaho on Wheels.
Meanwhile, the city gained more skilled workers following the graduation of 328 students from the Navotas Vocational Training And Assessment (NAVOTAAS) Institute.
The city government also distributed P1,000 to P3,000 livelihood assistance to Navoteños through the “NavoAhon Ayuda” program.
Among the beneficiaries were 400 displaced workers; 105 delivery riders and jeepney, tricycle and pedicab drivers; 21 jobseekers who graduated in 2020-2021; 60 entrepreneurs whose businesses were not permitted to operate during the peak of quarantine restrictions; and 180 new business owners.
“We will continue to push for more programs and services that would help provide more decent jobs and livelihood opportunities to Navoteños,” the mayor added.