By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has partnered with TikTok Shop to help low-income Filipinos break into the digital economy by providing ₱10,000 livelihood grants and free training for aspiring online entrepreneurs.
The initiative marks the first time the DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) has expanded beyond traditional businesses to support online enterprises.
Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian launched the pilot program in Valenzuela City, where more than 170 beneficiaries received startup capital to either establish an online business or expand their existing ventures through digital platforms.
Each participant was awarded a ₱10,000 grant, which Gatchalian emphasized is financial assistance—not a loan—and therefore does not need to be repaid.
“We are teaching our fellow Filipinos how to earn a sustainable livelihood as a long-term solution to poverty,” Gatchalian said.
As part of the partnership, TikTok Shop will conduct free seminars and hands-on training covering live selling, digital marketing, affiliate marketing, e-commerce strategies, cybersecurity, and other skills needed to succeed in online selling.
Beneficiaries also receive financial literacy training, including business planning, account management, banking services, and other entrepreneurial skills aimed at helping them build sustainable enterprises.
TikTok Shop Philippines Head for Public Policy Yves Gonzalez said the collaboration seeks to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises by giving them access to online tools that can connect their products with customers across the Philippines and even international markets.
He noted that digital platforms and affiliate marketing can significantly expand the market reach of small entrepreneurs, allowing even home-based businesses to compete nationwide.
The DSWD said the program specifically targets poor, vulnerable, and marginalized Filipinos who have the potential to become self-sufficient through entrepreneurship.
To ensure the grants achieve their intended purpose, the department will regularly monitor the beneficiaries’ businesses to determine whether they become profitable, generate employment, and improve the recipients’ economic conditions.
Following its initial rollout in Valenzuela City, the program is scheduled to expand to Vigan, Iloilo, and Tagum, before being implemented in other parts of the country.
The DSWD encouraged interested applicants to monitor its official website, social media platforms, or visit the nearest DSWD office for updates on future batches and application procedures.
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