Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada vowed to reduce poverty incidence in Manila by providing employment opportunities to thousands of Manileños as he congratulated the more than 1,000 people who graduated at the Manila Manpower Development Center.
The Manila Executive chief said the city’s development center is making rounds in various BARANGAYS in the city initiated by the Manila Manpower Development Center, in partnership with Department of Social Welfare and Development to help hem acquire skills and find jobs.
The “Womb to Tomb Program (Mula Pagsilang Hanggang Huling Hantungan)” aims to significantly reduce poverty incidence in a sustainable manner, Estrada said during a simple graduation ceremony in San Andres, Manila.
At least, 1,035 Manileños graduated from the program who finished short term program such as hotel and restaurant services, baking, cooking and food processing, hair coloring, beauty care, unisex haircutting, bed sheet making, and throw pillow making, among others.
“Everything here is taught by the Manila Manpower Development Center under the supervision of Manila Department of Social Welfare headed by Ms. Nanet Tanyag.” Mayor Estrada said.
The Manila mayor also said under the program, it will create employment opportunities, including self-employment for the poor.
“I am also proud to announce that to expand the program, evening classes will likewise open starting May 7, including cooking, beauty culture massage therapist and other shorter courses,” Estrada said.
The mayor said the city government is working closely with the private sector and to operationalize the program particularly on the provision of business and job opportunities to target households.
In his speech, Estrada said that the City government’s response to poverty is seen through the lens of human development.
“All of these are realized through employment and livelihood; education; health; and other programs being initiated by the city government,” Estrada added.
Aside the program, Mayor Estrada also announced that they can apply for P5,000 loan to start their own small businesses.