In the quiet barangay of Cawayan, Inabanga, Bohol, a collective dream for a better future has transformed into a remarkable success story, earning regional recognition and generating millions in income for its members.
From Humble Beginnings to Regional Recognition
The journey of the Cawayan Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA) began in 2016 when the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) extended its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to the area. The association, composed of 43 4Ps partner-beneficiaries facing financial difficulties, shared a common goal: to secure a stable livelihood and build a dignified future for their families.
With support from DSWD Field Office 7 and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Inabanga, the group was formally established. They received a substantial livelihood grant worth over P668,263.00, which became the foundation for their cooperative endeavors. Under the sincere and gentle leadership of Jocelyn Hugo, the association fostered a strong spirit of cooperation and transparency among its members.
Building Success Through Key Projects
The association's major breakthrough came with its participation as a supplier for the DSWD's Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP). Starting as a small-scale provider, the SLPA Cawayan proved its reliability and the quality of its service. This partnership has significantly expanded, and the association now supports the nutrition of 1,350 preschoolers in Inabanga. They have secured a purchase order valued at nearly P1.5 million, a monumental achievement for a community-based group.
Beyond this, the association successfully manages a hog-raising project. This initiative operates as a closed-loop system within the group, handling capital, feeds, and sales internally. It provides additional income for members and strengthens the association's overall financial health. Operational efficiency was further boosted by a multicab vehicle donated by the LGU Inabanga, which aids in logistics and daily operations.
Award-Winning Impact and Sustained Growth
The relentless efforts of the SLPA Cawayan were formally recognized in 2021. The association was honored as one of only two awardees from the entire province of Bohol at the Sulong Bayanihan Regional Awards under the Employment Facilitation – Market Category. The award was presented during the 6th Panaghiusa Festival at the DSWD Regional Office in Cebu City.
Now in its ninth year, the association's impact is quantifiable and impressive. Their cumulative gross income has surpassed P1.99 million. Furthermore, the group has maintained strong member engagement, with 36 of the original 43 members still actively participating. Their story stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved through unity, genuine partnership between government agencies and the community, and unwavering hope.
The narrative of the Cawayan SLPA serves as an inspiring reminder that sustainable community development is rooted in cooperation, mutual aid, and shared vision.
