The Empowering Journey of Lanie Tanaleon through the Sustainable Livelihood Programby: Josefina Torre
For many Filipinos in remote and underserved areas, poverty is more than the absence of income—it’s a daily battle for dignity, survival, and hope. In isolated barangays where opportunities are few and challenges are many, even the simplest dreams can feel out of reach. Yet for Lanie Tanaleon of Barangay Aguilar, San Lorenzo, Guimaras, poverty was not a life sentence—it was the starting point of a powerful transformation. Through the Department of Social Welfare and Development-Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP) under the Employment Facilitation Track, and with the support of Araya Skills and Development, a TESDA-accredited institution, Lanie’s journey moved from hardship to hope. This is her Sibol story—a testament to how well-implemented government programs can spark real, lasting change for individuals, families, and communities.
A Life of Struggles and Uncertainty. Before the SLP, Lanie Tanaleon lived a life that mirrored the silent struggles of countless rural Filipinos. Her husband, the family’s only breadwinner, toiled through irregular jobs—farming and charcoal-making—bringing in just enough to get by. As the mother of a household with limited resources, Lanie faced each day uncertain whether there would be food on the table or funds for emergencies. She had no job, no formal training, and no means to help her family beyond domestic duties. The future looked grim. Like many others in her situation, Lanie thought she would be tied to the cycle of poverty forever. The idea of formal employment seemed distant, if not impossible.
Opening a Door to Change. Lanie’s journey took a transformative turn through her family’s connection to the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). As the daughter of a 4Ps beneficiary, she became eligible for support under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), specifically through its Employment Facilitation Track. On December 21, 2017, she officially entered the program—a pivotal moment that opened doors to new opportunities. The SLP’s Employment Facilitation Track is designed to empower individuals by providing access to job matching, skills development, and vocational training—crucial steps toward sustainable employment. Lanie was granted Php 19,900.00 in financial assistance, which covered her enrollment fees, training expenses, food allowance, and transportation costs. With this support, she enrolled in the Food and Beverage Services course at Araya Skills and Development Center. Determined to succeed, Lanie completed the training and successfully passed the national assessment, earning her National Certificate Level II (NCII) from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). This certification validated her competency in a wide range of food and beverage service functions, including established routines and standard procedures. What began as a simple opportunity turned into a life-changing decision—one that set Lanie on a new path of independence, self-confidence, and a brighter future.
The Road to Skill and Self-Discovery. Training through TESDA was no walk in the park. Lanie had to travel far from her home to attend classes and participate in on-the-job training (OJT). She was assigned to Caza de San Miguel in Jordan, Guimaras, where she worked as a food server in their coffee shop. The distance and financial strain made her question her decision more than once. Her allowance barely covered her transport and meals, and at times, she had to sacrifice her personal needs just to continue. But quitting was never an option. Her resolve was stronger than the obstacles she faced. Through the training, Lanie learned not only technical skills like food preparation, sanitation, and customer service, but also valuable soft skills—punctuality, discipline, and professionalism. The experience shaped her character and fueled her determination to succeed.
Employment and Empowerment. After completing her on-the-job training, Lanie’s perseverance finally bore fruit. She was offered a regular position as a food server at Caza de San Miguel, earning Php 256.00 per day. While modest, this income marked the beginning of a new chapter—a turning point in her journey from uncertainty to stability. For the first time in her life, Lanie had a steady job, a reliable monthly income, and, most importantly, a renewed sense of purpose and self-worth. Her consistency and dedication did not go unnoticed. Nearly seven years after she first stepped through the doors of Caza de San Miguel, Lanie was promoted to the position of Cashier—a clear recognition of her trustworthiness and the value she brought to the team. Her promotion was more than a career milestone; it was a symbol of her growth and resilience. With her earnings, Lanie did more than support herself. She became a pillar of support for her parents and siblings, helping them meet their needs. She also began reinvesting in her future, starting small income-generating ventures such as hog fattening and rice retailing. These side businesses not only supplemented her income but also gave her a financial cushion for emergencies and a foundation for long-term savings. Lanie’s story is proof that with opportunity, hard work, and determination, one can rise above life’s toughest circumstances and build a life of stability and dignity.
A Ripple Effect in the Community. Today, Lanie is more than an employee—she is a role model in her barangay. Her story inspires others who are still in the clutches of poverty, especially young women who feel they have limited options. She encourages them to dream bigger and seek opportunities like the one she received. “Peace of mind is important in the workplace so you can perform well,” Lanie shared. Her words reflect the transformation not just in her economic status, but in her outlook on life. The SLP, she said, gave her more than a job—it gave her dignity, hope, and the power to change her narrative. Lanie no longer sees herself as a burden or a victim of circumstance. She is now an empowered woman contributing meaningfully to her family and her community. Her success is a compelling argument for the expansion and continued support of programs like the SLP.
The Role of DSWD and TESDA. Lanie’s journey is also a reminder of what can be achieved when government institutions work collaboratively. The DSWD provided the financial support, while TESDA and its accredited institutions offered the technical training. Together, they created a path for Lanie to escape poverty, build her skills, and enter the workforce. This synergy between welfare and education is crucial in addressing not just the symptoms but the roots of poverty. By empowering individuals through skills and sustainable livelihoods, programs like SLP lay the groundwork for community development and national progress.
Lanie Tanaleon’s journey is a powerful reminder that poverty is not destiny. With the right support from the Sustainable Livelihood Program and her determination, she transformed her life from uncertainty to stability and purpose. Her story shows that when government programs are effectively implemented and met with individual resilience, real and lasting change is possible for individuals, families, and communities alike. Lanie’s success is not just personal; it’s a beacon of hope for many still striving for a better future.
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