Welder who lost job uses gov’t aid to start street food business

A welder who lost his job due to the pandemic has used the subsidy he received from the government to start a street food business.

On Jun Veneracion’s “24 Oras” report Friday, Mario Lutang said he lost his job at a construction company when the pandemic began early this year.

When he received financial assistance from the Makati City government worth Php5,000, he used the money to start a business.

“Kung patuloy tayong magpapaapekto sa pandemyang ito, walang mangyayari sa atin. Laban lang sabi ko sa asawa ko, laban lang tayo. Lahat naman ng pagsubok may katapusan,” said Mario, whose wife also lost her job.

In June, he began selling street food such as fish ball, squid ball, kikiam, and other delicacies.

Since he had knowledge on welding, Mario converted his bike into a rolling store by mounting a sidecar. He also installed holders for the condiments, paper trays, beverage container, and other items he sold.   

Selling street food has proven to be a good investment, because his income per day is now higher than his rate as a welder.

These days, he earns between Php700 and Php1,200 each day, which is higher than his daily rate of Php615 at the construction firm.

On weekends, however, Mario continues to sideline as a welder, as well as a carpenter and plumber.

When he has enough earnings, he hopes to start another rolling store.

“Kagaya nitong mga nangyayari sa atin ngayon, huwag tayong padaig. Huwag tayong patalo. Laban lang tayo,” said Mario. – RC, GMA News