by Meriam G. Desacada
Tacloban City–A livelihood seminar and training on organic farming had been conducted by the Samar Police Provincial Office (SPPO) for the victims of abuse and insurgency over the recent weekend of September.
The organic farming training, held at Barangay Maulong in Catbalogan City, was initiated by the SPPO to benefit the victims of insurgency, as beneficiaries under its programs: Project F.A.I.T.H. (Food Always in the House), and A Visit to Give H.O.P.E. (Home of Persons Enriched with love).
During the 2nd day (September 2) of the training, each of the at least 100 beneficiaries was given 10 heads of free-range heritage chicken, and starter packs consisting of organic feeds and concoction for them to start immediately what they learned in organic farming.
The event was graced by Police/Brigadier General Owen Andarino, the deputy regional director of administration of the Police Regional Office-Region 8.
SPPO Director, Police/Colonel Peter Limbauan, along with his deputies P/Lt. Col. Francisco Sumpo Jr (administration) and P/Lt. Col. Edwin Barbosa (operations), said the livelihood training was aimed at helping the victims of abuse and insurgency to rebuild their lives.
Organic farming is a sustainable source of livelihood for them, as well as enable them to make meaningful contribution to the society, said Limbauan.
Other SPPO officials who worked in the facilitation of the training were P/Lt. Col. Harris Rebato, P/Lt. Col. Dexter Edillo, P/Major Reynaldo Rollo, P/Capt. Nelson Lapeciros, and P/Capt. Aileen Velarde.
The SPPO considered this livelihood training initiative as a highlight of their dedication on upholding law and order, as well as in addressing the underlying causes of societal problems. The police unit believed that organic farming is one endeavor that can provide sustainable source of income for these victims of insurgency.
Among the people and their respective agency that partnered with SPPO in implementing the livelihood training program were: supervising trade and industry development specialist (Samar) Vicente Candido, livelihood and development specialist Aminah Kay Sano, organic farming expert Bella Cajepe, and Rey Cueva, provincial director of TESDA, to name a few. —Meriam G. Desacada