The DSWD SLP, which stands for Sustainable Livelihood Program, is one of the community-driven programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Philippines. This community-based initiative is designed to empower poor, vulnerable, and marginalized Filipino households and communities by building their capacity to achieve and maintain sustainable sources of income.
The main goal of the DSWD SLP is to reduce poverty and inequality by helping people improve their livelihoods and skills. It aims to provide access to basic services and encourage participants to engage in economic activities, supporting the government’s efforts for inclusive growth. Through training, job assistance, and capital support, the social welfare aid program helps Filipinos become entrepreneurs and succeed in today’s changing economy.
Benefits
The SL Program offers a lot of potential benefits for its participants, both individually and for their communities. Here are some key advantages:
Individual benefits:
- Increased income and financial security: The program aims to equip participants with tools and resources to establish and sustain thriving sources of income, leading to improved income and financial stability.
- Enhanced skills and knowledge: Participants go through various training sessions to develop skills in managing businesses, financial literacy, marketing, and specific technical skills relevant to their chosen income-generating path. This knowledge empowers them to make informed decisions and run their businesses effectively.
- Improved self-reliance and confidence: Successfully managing an income source fosters a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-reliance and confidence. This newfound confidence can spill over into other aspects of their lives.
- Access to resources and networks: The program connects participants to resources like microfinance loans, raw materials, and marketing channels. They also build valuable networks with other entrepreneurs and government agencies, opening doors to further opportunities.
Community benefits:
- Economic development: Successful program interventions can stimulate local economies by creating new businesses and jobs, generating income, and boosting overall economic activity within the community.
- Reduced poverty and inequality: By empowering individuals and families to become self-sufficient, the program contributes to poverty reduction and helps narrow the gap between different income levels within the community.
- Stronger social fabric: The program encourages cooperation and collaboration among participants, fostering a stronger sense of community and social cohesion.
Overall, the SL Program strives to create a ripple effect of positive change, empowering individuals to break free from poverty cycles and contribute to the development of their communities.
Eligibility / Qualifications
The eligibility and qualifications for the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) are outlined in two main sets of guidelines: Memorandum Circular No. 7-S-2023 and Memorandum Circular No. 13-S-2023. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements:
Primary Criteria:
- Belonging to a poor household: This is assessed through the National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction (NHTS-PR). Prioritization is given to participants in the Pantawid Pamilya program.
- Willingness to participate: This includes attending required training sessions, actively engaging in income-generating activities, and adhering to program rules.
- Age requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old but no older than 65 years old at the time of application.
Additional Considerations:
- Vulnerability factors: The program prioritizes individuals and families facing particular challenges, such as being single parents, persons with disabilities, or disaster victims.
- Livelihood track preference: Participants can choose either the Micro-enterprise Development (MD) track or the Employment Facilitation (EF) track. Different requirements may apply depending on the chosen track.
- “No-match” cases: If you’re not listed in the latest official Listahanan database, you can still be eligible through the SL Program Means Test. This assesses your socio-economic status and capacity for financially sustainable activities.
Requirements
- Must be a Filipino citizen residing in the Philippines for at least six (6) months prior to application.
- Must belong to a poor household as identified by the Social Welfare Department or included in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) master list.
- Aged 18-55 years old for the Microenterprise Development Track (MDT) and 15-55 years old for the Employment Facilitation Track (EFT).
- Willing and able to participate in the program activities, including training and business development.
- Not a recipient of any other income-generating program or project funded by the government or private sector within the past three (3) years.
Additional Requirements:
- Microenterprise Development Track:
- Must have a proposed micro-enterprise project that is feasible and has market potential.
- Must be willing to form or join a Savings and Credit Association (SCA) or Social Livelihood Production Association (SLPA).
- Must be able to attend and participate in all training and capacity-building activities.
- Employment Facilitation Track:
- Must have basic literacy and numeracy skills.
- Must be willing to undergo skills training or assessment as needed.
- Must be open to job opportunities in different sectors.
Documentation Requirements:
- Valid ID with picture (e.g., SSS, government-issued ID)
- Proof of residence (e.g., Barangay Certificate, utility bills)
- Income Certificate from the Barangay
- Medical Certificate
- Family Profile Sheet
- Other documents specific to the chosen livelihood project or track (e.g., skills certificate, educational attainment)
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for DSWD-SLP
The Sustainable Livelihood Program aims to empower individuals and families to achieve economic self-sufficiency through profit-generating endeavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply:
1. Know your eligibility
- Age: 18-55 years old
- Citizenship: Filipino citizen residing in the Philippines for at least 6 months
- Income: Belonging to a low-income household
- Livelihood Project: Have a viable and sustainable livelihood project in mind (e.g., small business, agriculture, etc.)
2. Prepare necessary documents
- DSWD SLP Application Form: Downloadable from the DSWD website or available at your local Pantawid Pamilya Program (4Ps) office.
- Barangay Certification: Proof of residency
- Valid ID: Government-issued ID with photo (e.g., SSS ID, Voter’s ID)
- Family Income Certificate: Barangay certification or other document confirming your low-income status
- Livelihood Project Proposal: Detailed plan outlining your project (e.g., type of business, target market, expected income, etc.)
- Other Requirements: Depending on your specific project, additional documents like clearances or permits may be required.
3. Contact your local DSWD office or 4Ps focal person
- Locate your nearest DSWD office or 4Ps focal person through the agency’s website or by asking at your barangay hall.
- Inquire about the application process and schedule of SL Program activities in your area.
4. Attend the SLP briefing and orientation
- The social welfare representative will conduct a briefing on the program’s objectives, eligibility requirements, and application procedures.
- Attendance is mandatory for all applicants.
5. Submit your application
- Submit the completed application form and all required documents to the DSWD office or 4Ps focal person.
- Ensure all documents are complete and properly formatted before submission.
6. Wait for the assessment and approval
- The agency will assess your application and project proposal.
- This process may take several weeks.
7. Attend the SLP training (if approved)
- If your application is approved, you will be required to attend training workshops on financial management, business skills, and project development.
- Successful completion of the training is essential for receiving the program’s support.
8. Receive program assistance
- Upon completion of the training, you will receive a starter kit or financial assistance to help you start your project.
- The type and amount of assistance may vary depending on your project and the availability of funds.
9. Monitor and report
- The agency will monitor your project progress and provide technical assistance if needed.
- You will be required to submit regular reports on your project’s performance and income generation.
Additional Tips:
- Start planning your project early and ensure it aligns with your skills and interests.
- Seek advice and assistance from your local DSWD office or 4Ps focal person throughout the application process.
- Be patient and persistent, as the application process may take some time.
Video: Kwentong Sibol: Anunang Fisherfolks SLP Association
Learn about the inspiring story of the Anunang Fisherfolks SLP Association, led by their Association President, Helen Gabayan, from Barangay Gamut, Barobo, Surigao del Sur. This feature showcases their remarkable journey in enhancing the Bangus Production project, an initiative granted by the DSWD Sustainable Livelihood Program. Discover how Helen and her team have skillfully grown this project, contributing significantly to their community’s economic development and sustainability. Their story is a powerful example of how dedicated leadership and community collaboration can transform a simple opportunity into a thriving, impactful venture.