September 30, 2026 — The United Mothers Livelihood Association of Ucab (UMLAU) has been named the 2026 Regional Winner for Best DOLE-Assisted Livelihood Project under the Group Category during the 2026 Kabuhayan Awards of the Department of Labor and Employment–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR), held on September 29 in Baguio City.
UMLAO members Daisy Charongen and Carol Wigan, together with Itogon Public Employment Service Officer (PESO) Donna Comising, received the award from DOLE-CAR Regional Director Jesus Elpidio Atal.
The association also received a cash prize of P50,000.
According to Comising, the recognition was based on the association’s performance and accomplishments following the livelihood assistance it received from DOLE-CAR through the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP) in 2023. The assistance included livelihood starter kits consisting of food-processing equipment, which helped the group establish and sustain its livelihood activities.
Since receiving the assistance, UMLAU, led by Mary Kingad, has continued to produce various food products, demonstrating its efforts to sustain and develop the livelihood project.
Charongen said the association’s members will discuss how to utilize the cash prize. However, she shared that a portion of the amount will be allocated for donations and charitable activities as a way of paying forward the assistance and opportunities they have received.
Mayor Bernard S. Waclin commended UMLAU for its diligence, perseverance, and commitment to sustaining its livelihood project, noting that the recognition reflects the group’s efforts to turn government assistance into a productive and sustainable source of income.
