MANILA, Aug 4— The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) stands ready to provide skills and livelihood trainings for internally displaced persons (IDPs) affected by the armed conflict in Marawi City.
In a video message during the Bangon Marawi Forum Friday, DTI Secretary Ramon Lopez said business groups would have job openings for IDPs from Marawi.
Lopez said DTI would provide skills training for IDPs in order to meet the skills requirement of the available positions in the private sector.
On the other hand, the agency will give livelihood trainings for those who are engaged in entrepreneurial activities as well as livelihood starter kits and microfunding.
The DTI chief said despite of ongoing clash in Marawi City, the department is crafting measures to help Maranaw traders to go back to their business immediately.
He added that there were equipment donations like sewing machines and kits for the IDPs.
One way to help them back to entrepreneurship is by providing them space in malls.
Lopez said DTI is partnering with mall operators in the country to provide entrepreneurs from Marawi some 300 square meters space in their establishments.
He also asked the mall operators to waive the six months advance payment, rather, let traders pay their rental on a monthly basis.
He said that DTI had Negosyo Centers established in areas near Marawi City wherein Maranaw traders could continue their livelihood trainings and further mentoring.
The DTI also has microfunding program, Pondo sa Pagbabago at Pag-asenso or P3, to provide financial assistance to those who want to start a business.
Meanwhile, aside from IDPs, DTI is also providing livelihood opportunities for the families of government troops who were killed in action during the clash with the Maute terror group in Marawi.