Growing up as one of the 4Ps-monitored children, I’ve experienced firsthand how the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) has transformed not just our daily lives, but our entire sense of well-being. I stand here today as a living testimony to the impact of this program—proof that with support, determination, and faith, even the most challenging circumstances can be overcome.

Being born into a poor family is not something I have ever been ashamed of. In fact, it is one of the greatest blessings in my life. It taught me to appreciate every opportunity, every small victory, and every blessing that came our way. The 4Ps program did not just provide us with financial assistance; it gave us hope, a renewed sense of purpose, and the belief that poverty does not have to define our future.

It is because of this program that I am standing where I am today—a medical social worker at Margosatubig Regional Hospital. This journey, though far from easy, has been nothing short of miraculous. I also feel fulfilled now that I am able to give back to the community that I grew up in here in Margosatubig, Zamboanga Del Sur. As a 4Ps graduate, I feel like this is my way to return the favors and the help that the government has provided me and my family back in the day, especially when we had very little to none in life.

My younger brother, on the other hand, is now in his second year of college at OLT. He, too, benefitted from the 4Ps program as a beneficiary. Thus in return, he studies hard to create a better future for himself. Despite his academic commitments, juggling all his duties in school, he still finds time to sell shakoy, a humble but meaningful contribution that helps our parents and supports our family’s income. His teenage life does not deter him from helping our family in his own way, no matter how little he gets from it. You would think that a young lad like him would be ashamed of selling merienda to his frineds, classmates, and schoolmates? Not my brother. His determination is a reflection of the values instilled in us—hard work, perseverance, and a deep sense of responsibility to our family.

In Photo: My brother, John Kane Acabal, sells Shakoy in his school

Another sibling, Ericka, who is still in Grade 12 was also helped by the program. The assistance that my family receieved from DSWD’s 4Ps empowered us to bridge the gap caused by poverty. We were provided with opportunities and our minds were enlightened with knowledge on how to help ourselves.

As I look back on my life, I see how each challenge was an opportunity in disguise, how every hardship we faced as a family only strengthened our resolve. My life is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of determination, and the unwavering support of a community that believed in us.

I owe a debt of gratitude to many people who played a pivotal role in my journey, particularly Ma’am Rizalie Abilla, our dedicated Municipal Link. Her guidance and the employment facilitation she provided opened doors that I once thought were closed to me. But above all, I am thankful to our Almighty Father, whose guidance and blessings have been our constant source of strength. Ma’am Rizalie, as our Social Worker, has been very effective in assessing our situation and analyzing what interventions are appropriate for our needs. Her approach on case management and her work as an “Angel in Red Vest” as they are fondly called inspired me to take Social Work as well. Because my degree is a decision born out of the appreciation that I feel for the program, modesty aside, I was able to complete my tertiary education with flying colors. I earned a Cum Laude distinction during my graduation and I dedicate this recognition to my family and the people behind the program who helped us get through the challenges of life.

I am proud to say that we, the Acabal family, are living proof that with faith, hard work, and the right support, anything is possible. The 4Ps program has given us more than just financial assistance; it has given us the confidence to dream bigger and the courage to pursue those dreams.

My hope is that the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program continues to reach more Filipino families, offering them the same hope and encouragement that it gave us. I want every child, every family in the program to know that they are not less privileged—they are capable, deserving, and, with determination, they too can rise above their circumstances.

Thank you to the DSWD, our local government, and all those who have supported us on this journey. Our success is your success, and we are forever grateful. May God continue to bless you all!