DUMAGUETE CITY, July 18 -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) on Saturday distributed more than PHP113 million in livelihood grants and financial assistance to hundreds of beneficiaries in Negros Oriental, underscoring the government's commitment to employment generation and sustainable livelihood development.

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino led the turnover ceremony at the DOLE-Negros Island Region (NIR) office in Barangay Bajumpandan in this capital.

Speaking before beneficiaries and local officials, Tolentino described the newly established NIR as "a region of promise," saying it reflects the collective aspirations of its people.

"I look at NIR as a fulfillment of the collective desire of the people here to have their v...