Mohaliden and Nhurhata Undag is a young couple with big dreams for their children. Both have not finished their education and so they aspire for a better life for their children particularly by providing them support and tapping on their potentials to reach their dreams. The couple also learns more about good parenting from the Family Development Sessions (FDS) that they attend monthly. The FDS is the empowerment component and strategy of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of which the Mohaliden and Nhurhata Undag family is a member.

Their daughter, Samerah G. Undag, born on May 06, 2010, is a testament to the commendable parenting style of this 4Ps couple. Living peacefully but actively in a small town in Labangan, Zamboanga Del Sur, Undag family serves as a role model for other families in terms of parenting and raising good children.

In an interview that we had with a neighbour in Purok Gadungan, Barangay Bulanit, a woman expressed that she admires how Samerah was raised as a young, prim and proper lady.

“Kaya gusto ko ipasama si Samerah sa anak ko para matulad siya sa kanya. (That is why I love letting my child be with Samerah so she can influence my daughter to be like her),” the woman said while we were having an afternoon talk at the Undag’s.

Samerah is a bright and determined young girl whose journey has been nothing short of inspiring. At 14 years old, she embodies qualities that one would consider as exemplary for a teenaged girl. She is responsible, respectful, considerate, intelligent, diligent, and she works hard to achieve her goals. One would say that she is a role model both in academics and extracurricular activities.

As the cherished eldest daughter of Mohaliden and Nhurhata Undag, Samerah grew up in a loving home where love is always shown through actions and gestures. In their free time, the parents would take the children out for a fun outdoor activity such as going to the beach or just play at the nearby pasyalan. They taught their children to always help each other out. At home, after doing her homework, Samerah takes care of her 3-year-old sibling. This bonds their relationship and strengthens her attachment as the ate (big sister) in the family.

Her parents have been her biggest cheerleaders, always encouraging her to dream big and excel in everything she does. This supportive environment has undoubtedly helped shape Samerah into the exceptional young leader that she is today.

In school, Samerah’s achievements speak volumes about her dedication and intelligence. From Grade 1 to Grade 8, she has consistently earned high honors, showing not just her ability to grasp knowledge but her relentless commitment to learning. Last October 20, 2023, she ranked 2nd place in a Quiz Bee competition.

Other than focusing on academics, Samerah makes sure that she showcases her other abilities as well whether it’s playing an instrument as a member of the Drum Corps or taking part in the Supreme Student Government (SSG), where she represents and advocates for her peers.

During our conversation with her, Samerah shares that she did not win during the SSG elections however her dedication to serve her co-students and desire to provide a better academic environment outweighs the loss. She presented herself to become a volunteer for the SSG. Now talk about dedication and service.

She’s also a member of the Research Club, driven by a deep curiosity and a passion for inquiry, constantly pushing herself and others towards innovation. Samerah’s love for learning is especially evident in her involvement with the Science and Math Clubs. These clubs allow her to dive deeper into the subjects that she loves and enjoys. Her participation in the MAPEH (Music, Arts, Physical Education, and Health) Club is another testament to her well-rounded character, balancing her academic interests with her love for the arts and physical activity.

Outside of school, Samerah is just as active and engaged. She loves playing volleyball and badminton—sports that require not only physical agility but also teamwork and strategic thinking. These activities keep her fit and teach her important life skills like perseverance and cooperation. Dancing is another of her passions, a way for her to express herself creatively and build confidence. For Samerah, life is all about balance, nurturing both the mind and body.

What really sets Samerah apart, though, is her unwavering commitment to making a difference. She’s passionate about improving her school and promoting peace and unity among the youth. She believes that everyone has a role to play in creating a better, more harmonious society. Whether she’s organizing events, participating in community service projects, or simply being a good friend and role model, Samerah is always looking for ways to make a positive impact.

“Pinahahalagahan ko ang pagbuo ng matibay na relasyon at malasakit sa kapwa. (I value building strong relationships and care for others),” Samerah stated in her written narrative during the regional search for Exemplary 4Ps Child.

Samerah was hailed as Provincial Exemplary 4Ps Child of Zamboanga Del Sur for 2024.

Recently, she joined 4 other Exemplary 4Ps Children from Zamboanga Peninsula and dozens of excellent 4Ps children from across the country at the National Children’s Congress (NCC) held in Mandaue City, Province of Cebu. Together, they formulated messages that would help protect children especially those with difficulties or disabilities.

She is indeed an exemplary child, and a deserving monitored child of DSWD’s 4Ps program, a program that supports the education and health of poor Filipino families. She excels in academics and yet she has more to offer as a 4Ps child.

All these accomplishments are credited and dedicated to the parents, Mohaliden and Nhurhata Undag, who effectively raised a responsible and dependable child with worth-emulating character. Their support serves not only as a backbone that backs up the dreams of Samerah but rather stands as the foundation of her character and the kind of lady she is today.

They believe in her potential and have worked hard to provide her with the best opportunities. As beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Samerah and her family have also received fundamental support from the program especially in overcoming challenges brought about by poverty. The 4Ps program has given them access to education, healthcare, and other essential services, allowing Samerah to focus on her studies and advocacy work.

With the support of her family and the resources provided by the 4Ps program, there is no doubt that Samerah will continue to make a significant impact on her community. Her journey is just beginning, and her potential to contribute to society is limitless. She will definitely be an accomplished woman and achieve more in life as a leader, a friend, a daughter, and a sister.

 

Contributor:

JEHAN A. ABDULGANI, RSW, MSSW

Labangan-Municipal Link