DOLE helps vendors put up own mobile stores

MANILA, Philippines - Vendors in Metro Manila can kiss loan sharks goodbye.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday distributed tools and raw materials to enable them to put up their own “mobile” stores without the need to seek financial help from loan sharks.

Raymundo Agravante, DOLE-National Capital Region (NCR) director, said the distribution of a Nego-Kart worth P12,000 each to an initial batch of 20 vendors in Manila is part of the government’s job promotion program.

Agravante said DOLE thought of the Nego-Kart project to help mobile vendors earn more profits.

Under the project, Agravante said, DOLE will provide the vending cart and accessories as well as capital and skills training to chosen beneficiaries.

At this time, Agravante said, DOLE has 450 Nego-Karts for distribution to selected ambulant vendors in various areas in Metro Manila till March 2010.  – Mayen Jaymalin