A community-led livelihood project in Negros Oriental is gaining regional recognition as the Salong Farmers Association of Bindoy wins the group category of the Department of Labor and Employment’s (DOLE) first Regional Kabuhayan Awards in the Negros Island Region. The association was recognized for its corn mill, a project that helps local farmers reduce production-related expenses and improve access to essential milling services. Along with the award, the group received ₱50,000 and was selected as the region’s entry to the national Kabuhayan Awards in Davao City.
A Corn Mill That Supports Local Farmers
Located in Salong, an upland barangay in Bindoy, the corn mill was established in 2023 through a ₱995,000 livelihood project supported by DOLE. The Salong Farmers Association has 69 members, all of whom are corn farmers. Before the facility became available, farmers had to transport their corn to a neighboring town for milling, adding transportation and processing costs to their agricultural expenses. With the community corn mill, members can access milling services closer to home. The facility also serves farmers from neighboring barangays, extending its benefits beyond the association itself.
Reducing Costs and Improving Livelihood Opportunities
For small-scale farmers, expenses associated with transporting and processing agricultural products can affect their earnings. The corn mill provides a more accessible option, helping farmers save on the costs and effort involved in bringing their harvest elsewhere for processing. The project demonstrates how community-based livelihood initiatives can respond to practical needs while supporting local agricultural activities. By making milling services available within the barangay, the association can help its members manage part of their production process more conveniently. The regional award recognizes the group's effort to operate a livelihood project that provides direct support to farming families and nearby communities.
Recognizing Livelihood Projects Across Negros Island Region
The Regional Kabuhayan Awards also recognized other livelihood initiatives from across the Negros Island Region. These included a rice retail and grocery project by the Caridad I Agriculture Cooperative of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental, and a motor parts retail project operated by the Siquijor West Terminal Tricycle Operators and Drivers Association.
Individual livelihood awardees were also recognized for projects involving goat raising and agricultural and veterinary supply retail. For the Salong Farmers Association, the regional recognition brings attention to a practical initiative built around the needs of local corn farmers. Its selection as the region's entry to the national awards also provides an opportunity to showcase the community's livelihood project on a wider stage.
