13/08/2026
DSWD6 SLP capacitates defenders of peace in livelihood management
In conflict-affected communities, the Philippine Army establishes Patrol Bases to help sustain peace and security and safeguard the people. At the heart of these efforts are the CAFGU Active Auxiliary (CAA), local community defenders who work alongside the military to maintain peace in their respective areas.
Composed of community volunteers trained by the Philippine Army, CAAs play an important role in supporting security efforts and protecting their communities. While their service contributes to peace and stability, they, too, need opportunities to strengthen their livelihoods and provide additional income for their families.
Recognizing this need, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VI (DSWD6) Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), in partnership with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Madalag and the 82nd Infantry “Bantay Laya” Battalion (82IB), Philippine Army, facilitated a training on Hito and Tilapia Production conducted by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
The training brought together CAAs from Patrol Bases in Alaminos and Panipiason in Madalag, and Alfonso XII and Loctuga in Libacao. With their respective areas identified as having potential for fisheries-related livelihood projects, the training provided the participants with practical knowledge and skills that could help them establish and manage sustainable sources of income.
BFAR resource persons Josua V. Penalba, Aquaculturist I, and Korina C. Reyes, Community Development Officer I, shared their expertise on hito and tilapia production. The participants learned about the characteristics of the species, proper feeding practices, and techniques for effectively raising and managing fingerlings.
Complementing the technical training, the Provincial Program Management Office (PPMO) of SLP Aklan, under the leadership of Provincial Coordinator Rovi Christine V. Gonzales, together with the team of Project Development Officers (PDOs), also conducted the Micro-Enterprise Management Training I (MMT I). The training aimed to equip the participants with essential knowledge and skills in managing the operations of their livelihood projects, from day-to-day management to making informed decisions for the sustainability of their enterprises.
For the CAA Katatagan SLP Association of Alaminos Patrol Base, the training is particularly relevant as the group is already implementing a hito production project. The knowledge and skills gained from the training are expected to enhance the association’s capacity to properly manage its production activities, improve its practices, and sustain the livelihood project.
More than providing technical knowledge, the initiative reflects a shared commitment among government agencies and local stakeholders to support those who help protect and serve their communities. By providing livelihood opportunities alongside their peacekeeping roles, CAAs are given greater means to support their families and build a more secure future.
Beyond the patrol base, these community defenders are also being empowered to become livelihood partners in building stronger, more resilient communities./Glory Mae Panase