Koronadal City, South Cotabato—For Delfa Sabang, a former Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) and mother of two, returning home to South Cotabato was not the end of her journey but the beginning of a new chapter. Having spent years abroad in Kuwait, Qatar, and Hong Kong to provide for her family, Delfa found herself in a precarious situation when she returned to the Philippines without a stable source of income.
“I was depressed and exhausted after years of working overseas, but I knew I had to keep going for my children. All I wanted was to provide them with an education so they could have better lives,” Delfa shared. Despite the challenges she faced abroad, including mental health struggles, Delfa never lost hope that she could build a better future for her family.
Her opportunity came through the livelihood programs initiated by the Provincial Government of South Cotabato, designed to provide economic support and skills development to grassroots communities. Delfa became one of the beneficiaries of the Angat Program, which she describes as a lifeline that helped her transition from being an OFW to becoming a local entrepreneur.
“The program was like an answered prayer,” Delfa recalls with gratitude. “We were given seed capital and trained in basic business management, which helped us establish small businesses in our barangays.” Delfa and other members of the Barangay Paraiso OFW Association received ₱100,000 from the provincial government, which they used to start their enterprises.
Delfa, who now serves as the association’s president, explained how the seed money was utilized wisely. “We agreed to be transparent in all our transactions, making sure that the money was spent for the right purposes, such as purchasing necessary equipment and materials for our businesses. We wanted to ensure that no cent was wasted,” she said.
The livelihood program not only provided them with financial support but also equipped them with the skills needed to run a business. “Through the seminars and orientations, we learned how to manage our finances and operate as a cooperative. This was our first time being exposed to such trainings, and it has been incredibly helpful,” Delfa added.
Delfa’s leadership in the association has inspired many, particularly her fellow OFWs who are struggling to find economic stability after returning home. “We may not have had the opportunity to earn much abroad, but the provincial government has given us a chance to build something meaningful here,” she said. The association, now with 63 members, is working to expand its reach and help more OFWs and grassroots communities in need.
As the year comes to a close, Delfa looks forward to the future with hope and determination. “This program has not only helped us financially but has given us a sense of purpose and community. We’re not just building businesses—we’re rebuilding our lives,” Delfa remarked.
The Provincial Government’s commitment to bridging the gap in economic opportunities, especially for grassroots communities, continues to shine through its livelihood initiatives. For Delfa and many others, this is the start of a brighter and more secure future.
