BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Jan. 4(PIA) — A livelihood organization here recently received various tools and equipment from the Department of Trade and Industry(DTI) in order to start their chosen enterprise.

Ruben Diciano, DTI provincial director led the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement(MOA) with the officials of the KABAILAN Auto Savings Group (KASG) as the tools, machines and equipment for the latter’s Development and Manufacturing of Coco Shells and Wood Beads Village Enterprise were turned-over in barangay Buenavista here.

The machines, tools and equipment given were puncher, beading machine, tumbling or polishing machine, bench grinder, post drill, various small tools and sets of cutters for making wood and coco shell beads.

KASG is now producing fashion accessories out of coco shells and wood beads such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, chokers, hair clips and belts as well as placemats and coasters.

“This project is the first of its kind in Cagayan Valley and so we hope that it will grow and prosper for the benefit of the group members,” Diciano said.

20 members of KASG, he said also completed the three-day skills training on coco shell and wood beads making given by the DTI and the Department of Agrarian Reform(DAR) last November 27-29, 2012.

Tony Bagasao, representative of mayor John Severino Bagasao also urged the KASG members to work together to manage and sustain their project as the government is doing its share to help them achieve a better life through various livelihood projects.

“We are very thankful for this project. With the continuing support and assistance of our local and national governments, we know that we can do better to alleviate poverty in our community,” Villegas Gumangan, KASG president said.