Conner livelihood project puts Apayao wines on the map

A community-managed winery project in Barangay Malama is gaining attention as a working example of livelihood development in Apayao, turning locally grown produce into value-added products and steady income for residents.

Operated by the HAN-HAN Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (SLPA), the winery was visited on Wednesday, February 4, by Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian, together with provincial and municipal officials, as part of an on-site review of livelihood projects in the province.

SLPA members produce wines from locally sourced agricultural products such as rambutan, banana, rice, and other crops abundant in the area. Association president Aries Enriquez said the project has helped members move beyond raw produce selling and develop products with higher market value.

Sec. Gatchalian cited the project as a practical outcome of community-based livelihood support, and lauded the role of local initiative and organization in sustaining such enterprises.

Provincial officials said the Malama winery is a proof of the local government's push to support income-generating projects that are managed at the community level, particularly in rural barangays where livelihood options are limited.

Governor Elias C. Bulut Jr. said projects like the winery show how government assistance can translate into long-term gains when communities take ownership of implementation and operations.

The winery operates under the Sustainable Livelihood Program framework, with members handling production, quality control, and initial marketing. Officials said similar programs may be encouraged in other barangays with strong agricultural potential.

Also present during the visit were Vice Governor Kyle Bulut, Conner Mayor Jorico Bayaua, DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, DSWD-CAR Regional Director Maria Catbagan-Aplaten, Provincial Department Heads, and Conner LGU officials.