In the quiet barangay of Purnaga, Magsaysay, Occidental Mindoro, a vibrant backyard garden stands as a testament to resilience, ingenuity, and the transformative power of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). For the Oliveros family, what began as a program requirement blossomed into a sustainable lifestyle, redefining their future while uplifting their community.
Back in 2018, Ariel and Manilyn Oliveros, along with their two children, were enrolled in 4Ps, the government’s flagship poverty alleviation initiative. One of its core programs, Backyard Gardening, encouraged families to grow their own food, not just to meet immediate needs but to promote long-term self-sufficiency. What started as compliance evolved into passion, as the Oliveros family embraced gardening wholeheartedly, transforming their 250-300 square meter yard into a thriving oasis.
“We realized that in a place with limited livelihood opportunities, we needed to find ways to meet our basic needs,” shared Tatay Ariel.
Over the years, their garden has grown to include 20 varieties of vegetables, 10 types of fruit-bearing trees, and 11 medicinal plants. From papaya to purslane, calamansi to kamangi, their lush greenery is not only a source of nourishment but also a haven of biodiversity.
Thriving Through Challenges
When the pandemic disrupted lives in 2019 and 2020, the Oliveros family found strength in their garden. “Even during those difficult times, we rarely faced food scarcity,” said Manilyn. The garden’s yield provided nutritious meals and a lifeline for neighbors in need. The family’s commitment to sharing underscored the value of community spirit, an ethos deeply instilled by their participation in 4Ps.
Beyond sustenance, the garden became a source of income. Selling surplus produce earned the family PHP 500 to PHP 1,000 monthly, which they used for other expenses. This achievement aligns with the program’s goal of fostering sustainable livelihoods among its beneficiaries.
A Model for Organic Farming
Eager to learn, Manilyn pursued training through the Municipal Agriculture Office and completed a School-On-Air program on organic practices. The family adopted sustainable methods such as using carbonized rice hulls and animal manure as fertilizers and creating organic insecticides from wild chili, garlic, and lemongrass. These innovations earned them recognition, including multiple wins in the “Best in Gulayan sa Bakuran” competition and second place at the municipal and provincial levels.
Transforming Trash Into Treasure
The Oliveros family’s ingenuity extends to recycling. Old shoes, plastic bottles, and cement bags are repurposed into planters, proving that gardening need not be expensive. This eco-friendly approach not only reduces waste but also inspires others in their community.
Empowering the Community
The family’s success is rooted in their active participation in government initiatives. From attending training sessions to taking courses like the TESDA Digital Agriculture Course, the Oliveros family embodies lifelong learning. Manilyn’s dedication to honing her skills ensures that their garden remains a beacon of innovation and productivity.
Today, their yard is not just a food source but a living classroom for neighbors seeking to replicate their success. The family has become ambassadors of organic farming, sharing their knowledge and encouraging others to pursue sustainable gardening.
Beyond Awards
While their garden has earned them numerous accolades, including first place in the 2024 barangay competition, Manilyn insists that the true reward lies in their ability to provide affordable, nutritious food for their family and community. “The awards are bonuses,” she said. “What truly matters is the hope and self-reliance we’ve cultivated.”
A Flourishing Future
The Oliveros family’s journey showcases the transformative impact of 4Ps. By providing the tools and opportunities for self-sufficiency, the program has empowered families like theirs to rise above challenges and give back to their communities.
Their story is a reminder that with perseverance, creativity, and the right support, any family can turn a backyard into a flourishing future. As the Oliveros family continues to inspire, they prove that gardening is not just about growing plants—it’s about growing hope, resilience, and community.
