By Carmelo Redencion Jr 
Albay 3rd District Representative Fernando “Didi†Cabredo has been at the forefront of transforming government aid programs into sustainable livelihood opportunities for his constituents. With a firm belief in empowering communities, Cabredo has spearheaded initiatives that turn short-term assistance into long-term productivity, ensuring that government resources truly benefit the people.
Empowering Women Through Sustainable Livelihood
One of his notable projects is the organization of women farmers who initially benefitted from the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) program. This emergency employment initiative of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) provides short-term jobs for displaced and underprivileged individuals.
Instead of limiting their participation to temporary work, Cabredo encouraged these women to till lands for farming purposes. Under his guidance, the beneficiaries formally registered as a Women’s Planters Association, giving them a structured and recognized platform for further growth.
From Recipients to Entrepreneurs and Volunteers
Recognizing their potential, Cabredo helped these women transition from aid recipients to self-sustaining entrepreneurs. They organized themselves into a livelihood organization and secured funding from the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Through this program, they embarked on various income-generating projects, including:
✔ Livestock Raising – Providing stable food sources and additional income opportunities for families.
✔ Canteen Operations – Giving members a steady source of revenue while catering to the community’s needs.
In addition to their personal development, these women’s groups have also become on-call volunteers for various community initiatives, including:
✔ Brigada Eskwela – Assisting in school clean-up and preparation efforts before the academic year starts.
✔ Community and Church Clean-up Drives – Helping maintain public spaces, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.
✔ Other Voluntary Endeavors – Extending their time and skills for the betterment of their communities.
Through these initiatives, Cabredo has successfully transformed government assistance into a foundation for long-term economic stability and active community engagement.
A Public Servant Rooted in Community Development
Beyond these projects, Cong. Didi Cabredo’s leadership is defined by his dedication to grassroots development. His programs focus on agriculture, employment, and social welfare, ensuring that the people of the 3rd District of Albay have access to opportunities that uplift their quality of life.
A hands-on leader, Cabredo is known for personally engaging with communities, listening to their concerns, and crafting solutions that address real needs. His commitment to maximizing government resources for sustainable development has made a significant impact, proving that when public service is combined with vision and action, true progress happens.
As he continues to champion initiatives that promote self-sufficiency, community growth, and volunteerism, Cong. Didi Cabredo remains steadfast in his mission: transforming government aid into real opportunities for the people of Albay.