SOROGON CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in collaboration with its National Advisory Council and National Technical Working Group, is currently assessing the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to refine its implementation and increase its impact on beneficiaries.
According to Philippines News Agency, over 350 delegates from 17 regions have gathered in Sorsogon for a four-day field visit. The aim is to examine the 4Ps program's application in the province and to identify and address challenges. "Officials and personnel from our central office, along with other national government agencies, will tour towns in Sorsogon province to understand firsthand the hurdles faced by the recipients and to determine necessary interventions to improve their well-being. Our goal with the 4Ps is to interrupt the cycle of inter-generational poverty," Laurio explained.
The visit included trips to five towns known for their effective practices in running the 4Ps. Laurio highlighted several achievements, such as the adoption of anti-cash card pawning ordinances, effective workforce caseload assessments, and capacity-building efforts that have significantly contributed to the program's success. "We are pleased to share the success stories of over 80,000 children who graduated from the program, former beneficiaries who are now program staff, and instances where beneficiaries voluntarily ended their participation due to improved socio-economic status," he added.
Activities during the visit also involved home visitations and interviews focusing on key areas such as education, health, compliance with program conditions, livelihood, and family development sessions. Laurio noted that after the field visit, a focus group discussion will take place to address program issues, concerns, and gaps identified during the visit. "The insights gathered will form the basis of recommendations aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of the 4Ps program," he stated.
DSWD-5 reports indicate that there are currently 405,588 active 4Ps household beneficiaries in the region as of March 2024.