DOLE launches online platform for entrepreneurs

By Erma Edera, Manila Bulletin, May 16, 2019

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is offering an online platform for informal sector workers and micro-entrepreneurs which they can use to sell and promote their products on the internet.

Dubbed as DOLE Livelihood Beneficiaries Products Showcase (DLBPS), the free online market platform was developed and managed by the Bureau of Workers with Special Concerns (BWSC).

It aims to enhance the selling and marketing capabilities of the beneficiaries of the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program (DILP).

In order to help improve their products and services, a product review is also featured in the online platform where buyers or customers can provide feedback or rate the marketed products.

“We recognize the unique contribution of workers in the informal sector in the country. We want to improve their status of living, strengthen their enterprises and livelihood, as well as to protect their rights as workers,” Labor Secretary Bello said in his message read by Labor Undersecretary Ana Dione.

On the other hand, Assistant Secretary Benjo Santos Benavidez said the ultimate agenda of the labor department is to help the informal workers to cope with the transition to formal economy.

He added this is the reason why the department has envisioned the online marketing platform to help the livelihood beneficiaries in selling their products.

“We want you to have a sustainable livelihood. This is one of the tools we have developed to help you sell your products,” he told the workers.

The online platform was unveiled as one of the highlights of the celebration of labor day for informal workers with the theme “Tungo sa Matatag at Masaganang Pagnenegosyo,” held in Paranaque City Hall on May 6.