The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in the MIMAROPA region continues to create transformative changes, uplifting families and fostering self-reliance. As the flagship social protection program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), 4Ps empowers communities through education, health, and livelihood support. In 2024, the program not only met but exceeded key targets, showcasing exemplary best practices that have significantly improved the lives of its beneficiaries.
Achieving Self-Sufficiency: A Testament to Community Growth
One of the most remarkable accomplishments of the 4Ps program in MIMAROPA has been its success in promoting self-sufficiency. This year, an impressive 87.79% of the targeted 49,309 households transitioned towards economic independence. Provinces like Marinduque (231.52%) and Oriental Mindoro (125.25%) exceeded their targets, reflecting the success of targeted interventions such as livelihood training, financial literacy programs, and close collaboration with local governments. The dedication of 4Ps field officers and community volunteers played a crucial role in ensuring that families received the necessary support to thrive.
Promoting Education: Championing the Future of Children
The “Bida ang Batang Bumalik sa Eskwela” (BBBE) campaign has been a resounding success in addressing school dropouts. This initiative encouraged thousands of children to return to school, resulting in 15,153 formerly Not Attending School (NAS) children re-enrolling in 2024. With strong support from educators, local officials, and parent leaders, this campaign has reaffirmed the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and inspiring hope for a brighter future.
Economic Empowerment: A Path to Sustainable Livelihood
4Ps MIMAROPA has excelled in providing meaningful economic opportunities for families. Through the Enhanced Support Services Intervention (ESSI), 9,966 households received livelihood support, surpassing the original target. Projects such as livestock farming, crop cultivation, and small-scale enterprises have enabled families to establish stable sources of income. Moreover, the program’s strategic partnerships facilitated 32,234 referrals for employment and livelihood assistance, giving beneficiaries access to sustainable job opportunities and entrepreneurial training.
Innovative Best Practices: Strengthening Community Engagement
This year, 4Ps MIMAROPA introduced innovative strategies that strengthened beneficiary engagement and service delivery:
Indigenous Peoples (IP) Caravan – A culturally inclusive initiative held in Sta. Cruz, Occidental Mindoro, bringing essential services directly to Indigenous Peoples. The event provided information drives, health consultations, and National ID registration, reinforcing accessibility and inclusivity.
Youth Empowerment through SK Leadership Consultation – Engaging 72 Sangguniang Kabataan Federation Presidents and youth officers in program planning fostered strong advocacy for education, health, and leadership development among 4Ps youth. This initiative created a network of young leaders dedicated to addressing social issues and supporting their communities.
Serbisyo Caravan: A Multi-Sectoral Approach – Strengthening collaboration with government agencies and private organizations resulted in more comprehensive service delivery. Families gained access to essential health check-ups, job fairs, financial literacy workshops, and capacity-building activities tailored to their needs.
Building a Brighter Future: Lessons and Next Steps
The success of 4Ps in MIMAROPA is a testament to the power of collective action, innovation, and unwavering commitment to community development. Moving forward, the program aims to further strengthen partnerships, enhance livelihood opportunities, and improve service accessibility for marginalized communities.
Planned initiatives for 2025 include issuing program exit notices, conducting transition assessments, and hosting “Pugay Tagumpay” ceremonies to celebrate beneficiaries’ achievements. These efforts will ensure a seamless transition for families reaching self-sufficiency while reinforcing the continued support of local government units.
With its steadfast dedication to empowering families, 4Ps MIMAROPA continues to inspire resilience, drive progress, and create a future where every Filipino has the opportunity to succeed.
[Story: Marieneth Malubag, Information Officer II]
