Stories of Good Change

Building Businesses, Strengthening Livelihoods in Prieto Diaz

Livelihood support goes beyond providing tools and resources. It also means helping people gain the knowledge and confidence to build something that can last.

On August 18 and 19, 2026, Good Neighbors Philippines’ Prieto Diaz Community Development Project conducted a two-day capacity-building activity for beneficiaries of the GNIP-DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (ILP).

The activity brought together 35 individual beneficiaries and representatives of SEAMANCOR Eco-Developers Inc., including members of its Board of Directors and officers.

The first day focused on “Business Ready: Entrepreneurship, Financial Literacy, Bookkeeping, and Business Registration Training,” designed to help beneficiaries who are starting or managing small businesses.

The sessions covered practical topics such as financial management, simple bookkeeping, business registration, and business compliance; skills that can make a difference in keeping a small enterprise organized and sustainable.

Mr. Samuel Latoza, DTI Sorsogon Negosyo Center Coordinator for Prieto Diaz, discussed financial literacy and simple bookkeeping, emphasizing the importance of managing finances properly and keeping accurate records.

Meanwhile, Ms. Gemma Ferrer, Municipal Treasurer of Prieto Diaz, guided participants on business registration and compliance, helping them understand the requirements for operating a legitimate enterprise.

Making Workplaces Safer

On the second day, members of SEAMANCOR Eco-Developers Inc. participated in an Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Training for Safety Officer 1.

Facilitated by Mr. Mark James Andayog, Regional Extension Unit Manager of the Occupational Safety and Health Center (OSHC), the training covered hazard identification, risk prevention and control, workplace safety practices, and the responsibilities of a Safety Officer 1.

For beneficiaries managing livelihood ventures, building a business also means creating a workplace where people can work safely and responsibly.

More Than Livelihood Assistance

The two-day activity is part of the organization’s continuing support under the GNIP-DOLE ILP. Beyond providing livelihood assets, the program helps beneficiaries develop the knowledge and skills they need to manage their enterprises, make informed decisions, and build safer working environments.

The next milestone will take place on September 11, 2026, with the turnover of livelihood kits to the 35 individual beneficiaries and the group beneficiary. Good Neighbors Philippines’ Country Director Mr. Dongchul Park will participate in the activity.

For GNPH, livelihood development is not simply about helping people start a business. It is about helping them build something they can manage, grow, and sustain.

Through continued capacity building and livelihood support, we are working toward communities with greater self-reliance, safer workplaces, stronger livelihoods, and greater economic resilience.