By: Rosalie Ann O. Bolo

The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) is one of the poverty-reduction programs of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) that aims to improve the socio-economic conditions of the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged individuals through provision of opportunities for livelihood development and expansion. True to its mandate and with the objective to promote and broaden the market reach of its beneficiaries, the SLP held a product exhibit entitled Likhang Hiraya last 27-28 March 2023 at the DSWD Central Office.

The term Hiraya was derived from the ancient tagalog language that pertains to the fruit of one's hopes, dreams, and aspirations. The same term has also inspired the intent of SLP to provide an avenue for its beneficiaries to showcase their livelihood to a wider market. Further, the event was designed not only to provide an opportunity for product exhibit, but also to recognize the efforts of the beneficiaries and allow their creativity to flourish.

Various SLP Associations (SLPAs) coming from different regions participated in the event. Each SLPA was also given a spot to display and sell their products during the two-day event. Finally, the participants were also given opportunities to share their best practices and the lessons they learned from running and sustaining a microenterprise.

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