The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) in the Davao Region has delivered a significant boost to coastal communities in Davao Occidental. On December 28, 2025, the agency disbursed livelihood assistance totaling P587,250 to two fisherfolk associations in the municipality of Sta. Maria.
Empowering Coastal Communities
This financial support, channeled through the Davao Occidental Field Office (DOcFO), aims to bolster sustainable fishing practices and create opportunities for income diversification. The beneficiaries are the Nagkahiusang Mananagat sa San Agustin Association and the Manacan Indigenous People Farmer and Fisherman Association. Both groups are based in Barangay San Agustin, Sta. Maria.
The local barangay government unit (BLGU) of San Agustin, acting as Dole's accredited co-partner, facilitated the official turnover of the grant. This collaboration ensures the assistance is effectively managed within the community.
Local Leadership Expresses Gratitude
San Agustin Barangay Captain Mikhail Kristoffer A. Mariscal Sr. warmly welcomed the initiative. He thanked Dole-Davao for the timely support, highlighting its potential impact beyond immediate financial relief.
Captain Mariscal emphasized that the project is designed to enhance local productivity. More importantly, it strengthens collective action toward long-term, sustainable coastal development in the area.
Commitment to Marginalized Workers
Paul V. Cruz, Provincial Director of Dole-Davao DOcFO, reaffirmed the agency's dedication to improving the lives of marginalized workers. He stated that such sustainable livelihood programs are central to their mission of providing tangible economic opportunities and fostering community resilience.
This intervention by Dole-Davao represents a concrete step in supporting the backbone of the local marine economy. By investing in fisherfolk organizations, the program seeks to create a more stable and prosperous future for the coastal residents of Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental.
