DOLE-WV Honors Livelihood Champions, Partners @ 2026 Kabuhayan Award

Iloilo City- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Western Visayas recognized outstanding beneficiaries, local government units (LGUs), partner, organizations and DOLE personnel for their exemplary contributions to livelihood development and employment assistance during the 2026 DOLE Kabuhayan Awards held on September 24, 2026 at Zuri Hotel, Iloilo.

Anchored on the theme, “Kabuhayang Matatag, Mamamayang Umaangat: Sama-samang Pagkilos Tungo sa Bagong Pilipinas,” the awards ceremony celebrated individuals and organizations whose dedication and collaboration have helped translate government programs into meaningful livelihood opportunities and improved economic prospects for workers and communities.

The activity is in line with the vision of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for a Bagong Pilipinas where every Filipino is empowered with opportunities to improve their lives, build sustainable livelihoods, and actively contribute to nation-building.

Under the leadership of DOLE Secretary Francis Tolentino, the Department continues to strengthen its programs and partnerships to promote employment, workers’ welfare, sustainable livelihood, and responsive delivery of government services.

The 2026 Kabuhayan Awards highlights how these efforts create tangible impact at the community level.

The awards recognized outstanding accomplishments in the implementation of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP), which provide livelihood assistance and employment opportunities to qualified beneficiaries.

DOLE Western Visayas Regional Director Atty. Sixto “Popoy” Rodriguez Jr. highlighted the significance of recognizing the people and institutions behind the successful implementation of these programs.

“These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the remarkable individuals, groups, local government units, and co-partners who have transformed government programs into tangible, life-changing realities,” Rodriguez said.

2026 DOLE Regional Kabuhayan Awardees

The following individuals, organizations, and local government units were recognized for their outstanding accomplishments:

I. Major Awards

Best DOLE-Assisted Livelihood Project – Individual Category
Regional Winner: Ermil Golingan, Iloilo
Online Food Service and Catering Project

1st Runner-Up: Jinky Marie Vargas, Antique
Frozen Food Retailing Project

Best DOLE-Assisted Livelihood Project – Group Category
Regional Winner: Masboi Sailboat Multipurpose Cooperative, Aklan
Production of Printed Ad Sail Boat

1st Runner-Up: Sibalom Livestock and Poultry Raisers, Inc. (SILPRA), Antique

2nd Runner-Up: LGU-Panitan, Capiz, Agricultural Supply Projects for Pasague Community Farmers Association

Special Awards
Best Local Government Unit- Implementing DILP
LGU Patnongon Antique

Best Co-Partner- Implementing DILP
St. Anthony’s College, Inc., Antique

Top Performing Provincial/ Field Office Livelihood Focal Person
Virgie Liza Mellendez, Antique Field Office

Top Performing Provincial/Field Office TUPAD Focal Person

Jannielyn Magbanua, Iloilo Field Office

The achievements of the awardees demonstrate the value of sustained government support and strong partnerships in creating livelihood opportunities that enable workers and communities to become more productive and resilient.

More than recognizing accomplishments, the Kabuhayan Awards underscores DOLE Western Visayas’ continuing commitment to ensuring that government programs translate into meaningful opportunities for workers, particularly those who need assistance in building or strengthening their sources of income.