Mark Vincent V. Fabito, Social Welfare Assistant (SWA) implementing the Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program (TBTP) of the DSWD Social Welfare and Development Team (SWADT) in Odiongan, Romblon, reflects on his transformation and success from being once a beneficiary to now working as a public servant.

In an interview, he expressed joy and pride for being part of the program which provides Cash-For-Training (CFT) and Cash-For-Work (CFW) assistance to indigent college students. These students become Tutors for incoming Grade 2 learners struggling with reading or Youth Development Workers (YDWs) who give training to learners’ parents on child welfare and development for 20 days.

“Ang TBTP ay isa ring magandang programa sapagkat ini-involve natin yung mga learners na Grade 2 pupils, parents, at college students na makakatanggap din ng CFW…Maganda ito dahil makakatulong din ito sa mga gastusin ng college students at mga parent na mag-a-undergo ng training, same as 4Ps…makakatulong ng malaki sa mga indigent people,” he said.

Photo credit : Odiongan Public Information Office

“Dati nung hindi pa po kami member ng 4Ps, maraming struggles po kaming napagdaanan ng aking mga kapatid…minsan hindi kami nakakapasok dahil kulang yung pera…minsan nagbabaon lang kami ng kanin,” he continued.

Mark fondly recalls his early days as a beneficiary of the DSWD Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). 

“Napakalaking tulong ng 4Ps at DSWD sa aming pamilya sapagkat nababawasan nito ang aming mga gastusin sa pag-aaral…Mahirap mag-aral kapag kulang ang ating pinansyal na suporta galing sa ating magulang,” he added.

He also expresses deep gratitude for the support he received as a beneficiary, which helped him graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and reach his current position. 

“Bilang isang staff ng DSWD, ako ay lubos na natutuwa at nagpapasalamat dahil kahit gaano kahirap ang buhay, nagsumikap ako at ang aking pamilya upang makapagtapos at makarating kung nasaan man ako ngayon,” he shared.

After nearly 13 years of support from the government, Mark has now achieved a life in public service. 

When asked what message he has for struggling students, he said, “Magsumikap kayo sa inyong pag-aaral at ‘wag sumuko hangga’t hindi mo nakakamit ang iyong gusto. At higit sa lahat, ‘wag ninyong kalimutang humingi ng tulong sa Panginoon…”

DSWD remains committed to delivering programs and projects that support those in need, empowering individuals to overcome poverty and inspiring future generations to do the same and pay it forward.