Manila: The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Leyte provincial office on Monday distributed the Pangkabuhayan sa Pagbangon at Ginhawa (PPG) business kits to 114 members of the Integrated Peace and Development Workers' Association (IPDWA) in Baybay City, Ormoc City, and the town of Hilongos in Leyte. The assistance forms part of the government's livelihood and peacebuilding efforts for residents of areas previously affected by armed conflict and former rebels.

According to Philippines News Agency, the livelihood packages include sari-sari store kits, rice-retailing packages, and hog-raising starter kits aimed at supporting income generation and economic recovery. Of the total beneficiaries, 51 IPDWA members are from Baybay City, 23 from Ormoc City, and 40 from Hilongos.

Representatives from the 93rd Infantry Battalion stated that livelihood programs help promote peace and community strength by enabling beneficiaries to become self-reliant and productive. DTI Leyte Provincial Director Faustino Gayas Jr. mentioned that the PPG program aims to assist beneficiaries in rebuilding their lives through entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood opportunities.

Gayas emphasized that the continued implementation of the program reflects the government's whole-of-nation approach to peace, recovery, and long-term development in the province. He expressed gratitude to partner stakeholders, noting that the ongoing execution of the PPG program is integral to advancing these goals.

The distribution of livelihood kits also underscores the strong partnership between the DTI and the Philippine Army in supporting socio-economic programs for communities in Leyte.