“4Ps changed our lives,” Geralyn Bacang shared with a smile. “It gave me hope and the chance to finish my studies. Now, I’m preparing for the Criminologist Licensure Examination. Without 4Ps, I wouldn’t be here today.”
Geralyn, the first college graduate from the Subanen Tribe in Sitio Logdeck, Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay, is a living testament to the transformative power of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Dropping out in fifth grade due to financial struggles, she found her way back through an alternative learning system, with the support of 4Ps. The program provided her with the resources she needed, including a place to stay, enabling her to achieve her dreams.
Story of Triumph
This story of triumph is one of many under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) flagship program, which has been instrumental in reducing child labor by ensuring children stay in school.
“4Ps is more than just a conditional cash transfer program. It is a vehicle for hope and opportunity,” said Gemma Gabuya, 4Ps National Program Manager. “By enabling children to stay in school, receive health care, and access proper nutrition, we’re helping them avoid the risks of child labor and achieve a brighter future.”
The program provides families with monthly cash grants ranging from ₱300 to ₱700 per child for education, ₱750 for health and nutrition, and ₱600 for rice subsidies. To qualify, families must meet specific conditions, such as ensuring their children maintain at least an 85% school attendance rate and participate in regular health check-ups and family development sessions.
In 2023, compliance among children aged 6 to 18 reached an impressive 95%, reflecting the program’s effectiveness. This commitment has significantly contributed to reducing the number of working children aged 5 to 17, from 1.48 million in 2022 to 1.09 million in 2023, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Quezon City Representative Marvin Rillo highlighted the program’s vital role in keeping children in school, emphasizing its impact on reducing child labor.
Balik-Bata Eskuwela Campaign
The Balik-Bata Eskuwela campaign, a crucial component of 4Ps, encourages out-of-school youth to return to school through community outreach, collaboration with local governments, and support mechanisms like school supplies.
“Through these efforts, we address barriers to education and give children the chance to achieve their potential,” Director Gabuya added.
For Geralyn and millions like her, the program is a lifeline.
“Dako jud ang akoang pasalamat sa mga tawo nga nagtinabangay para maka-graduate ko,” she said with heartfelt gratitude. [“I am deeply thankful to everyone who worked together to help me graduate.”]
DSWD supports over 4 million households nationwide.
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