Quezon City — The Local Government Unit (LGU) of Magsaysay, Occidental Mindoro, led by Municipal Mayor Hon. Cesar M. Tria Jr., has received a plaque of recognition for its exceptional contributions to the implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and its Kilos-Unlad Program. The award was given during the event “Pasasalamat at Pagpupugay sa mga Partners ng Pantawid”, held in Quezon City, Metro Manila, on December 2-3, 2024. This recognition highlights the LGU’s steadfast commitment to uplifting the lives of its most vulnerable residents.

Among the LGU’s notable efforts is the issuance of Executive Order No. 65, Series of 2023, which focuses on providing aftercare services to graduating 4Ps households. This initiative ensures that beneficiaries achieve and maintain self-sufficiency through integrated social services, financial independence, and community engagement. Similarly, EO No. 18, s. 2024, established a Community/Family Development Session Core Team to strengthen Family Development Sessions (FDS). These sessions, covering essential topics such as financial literacy, health, and nutrition, benefitted 3,179 participants in 2024 alone. Additionally, the ASIN (Ang Serbisyo Ihatid Natin) program, introduced through EO No. 07, s. of 2021, addresses the needs of residents in remote and underserved areas by bringing essential services directly to approximately 2,000 households.

The LGU’s legislative arm has also been instrumental in supporting the program. Key resolutions include the authorization of Mayor Tria to formalize agreements for 4Ps implementation, the establishment of Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs under Ordinance No. 281-2023, and a partnership with the HOPE Project to promote entrepreneurial opportunities for 88 4Ps households. Furthermore, the LGU collaborated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to enhance water systems in Barangays Nicolas, Paclolo, and Purnaga under the Enhanced Support Services Intervention (ESSI) initiative.

Recognizing the importance of infrastructure in poverty alleviation, the LGU has invested in projects such as health stations in Barangays Alibog, Nicolas, and Poblacion, a footbridge in Barangay Laste, and a seawall in Barangay Santa Teresa. These efforts are complemented by the inclusion of 4Ps initiatives in the Annual Procurement Plan, Work Financial Plan, and Executive Legislative Agenda (ELA), which ensure sustained funding and program integration.

To foster community engagement, the LGU has provided annual incentives for Parent Leaders, scholarships for 4Ps college students, and financial aid for education, livelihood, and medical needs. Other initiatives include the distribution of agricultural inputs, the improvement of facilities for women and children, and the construction of farm-to-market roads to bolster economic opportunities.

The recognition bestowed on LGU Magsaysay underscores its dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of its constituents. Through innovative programs, strong leadership, and collaborative governance, the municipality has become a model for effective 4Ps implementation and sustainable community development.