Armed with resilience, fueled by compassion, and driven by an unyielding sense of duty, Maricel Ordillano has turned personal hardships into a mission of service.
For the past seven years, Maricel, a mother and widow from Buyabod, Santa Cruz, Marinduque has dedicated herself to serving as a Parent Leader of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
She empowers fellow single parents and proves that true leadership is not about personal gain but about uplifting others, building a community, and leaving a legacy of love and selflessness.
Through her uncompromising devotion, she continues to inspire and serve—one family at a time.
Raising her children alone after the loss of her husband was never easy. As the sole provider, Maricel faced countless financial and emotional struggles. Yet, instead of succumbing to despair, she took action.
Determined to create a better future, she enrolled in a Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) course, equipping herself with new skills—not only to support her family but also to inspire her community.
“Dahil sa hirap ng buhay bilang isang solo parent, pinilit kong mag-aral ng TESDA course para matuto ng ibang kaalaman at makatuklas ng bagong kakayahan,” she shared.
The allowance from her studies helped sustain her family, but more importantly, it empowered her to push forward—for her children and her fellow solo parents.
As the leader of the Solo Parent organization, Maricel has created a safe space for single parents, particularly the 4Ps beneficiaries, offering support, advocacy, and empowerment. With her efforts, the organization has become a strong pillar in addressing the unique struggles of solo parents.
Her remarkable leadership is best demonstrated through her active role in the program. Through tireless reminders, motivational efforts, and personal outreach, she has ensured that her barangay maintains a 100% attendance rate in Family Development Sessions (FDS).
These sessions are crucial in promoting family values, responsible parenting, and program compliance.
“Naisip kong mas makakasunod sa mga kondisyon ng programa ang mga kasama ko kung may kapwa benepisyaryo silang aakay at tutulong.”
With this in mind, she spearheaded the “peer buddy system,” where successful beneficiaries mentor those struggling with program requirements.
Beyond her official duties, Maricel’s compassion knows no bounds. She mobilizes financial support for families in crisis, whether for medical emergencies or the loss of a loved one, reinforcing the spirit of bayanihan. She also leads clean-up drives, feeding programs, and livelihood workshops, all while advocating for children’s education and health in collaboration with local schools and health centers.
“Bilang isang miyembro ng 4Ps, alam kong may tungkulin ako. Kaya hinihikayat ko ang mga kasamahan kong magtanim ng gulay para sa aming community garden,” she said.
Driven by her commitment, she has encouraged backyard gardening, where families work together, share resources, and cultivate a stronger bond.
Despite the heavy responsibilities she shoulders, Maricel remains steadfast in her mission. Whether it’s coordinating with local schools to support children’s education or assisting in medical missions for senior citizens, she continues to serve with unwavering dedication. Even during natural disasters, she steps up as a Philippine Army Reservist, actively participating in relief and response operations.
In recognition of her outstanding service, this year Maricel was honored with the Pillar of Community Award as 2024 Best Parent Leader under the 4Ps Guild: Galing ng Serbisyo Award.
This recognition highlights her unwavering commitment to community service and her dedication to uplifting fellow 4Ps beneficiaries.
Maricel Ordillano truly embodies strength, service, and selflessness. She is not just a mother, a 4Ps member, and a community leader, but she exemplifies that true leadership is not about personal gain, but about lifting others to greater heights.
Story Contributor: Dorothy Lozano, Municipal Link, Sta. Cruz, Marinduque
