Tampakan, South Cotabato — The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office XII (DSWD 12) witnessed the opening ceremony of the General Merchandise Store of the Liberty Peace & Development Volunteer Farmers Association located in Purok Irrigation, Barangay Liberty, Tampakan, South Cotabato on November 18, 2025.

According to Mr. Wilbert G. Gunday Jr., Association President, the group began in 2022, with several members already managing fish ponds at that time. Seeing the growing potential of their livelihood, they decided to organize and form a corporation to expand their reach and help more farmers in their community.

In 2025, the association officially became a DSWD 12 partner under Project LAWA at BINHI. With the support of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR)—which provided fingerlings and feeds—they were able to establish sufficient capital that contributed to the opening of their General Merchandise Store. The Office of the Municipal Agriculturist (OMAG) also provided continuous technical assistance, further strengthening their operations.

The store, with a total capital of ₱60,920.00, is part of the General Merchandise livelihood component of Project LAWA at BINHI and is expected to generate more livelihood opportunities for members and the community.

The activity was attended in coordination with Mr. Henry Macull of OMAG and was fully supported by the LGU, BLGU, and PLGU, reflecting their sustained commitment to the implementation and long-term sustainability of Project LAWA at BINHI.