Every parent dreams to raise children who would grow in knowledge and purpose. Our parents are the firsts to teach us about life, let us know what is right and wrong, guide us into discovering ourselves and, on a deeper level, unravelling our true essence in life. Such is the same in the household of Jura Mahamud Dihagan and Roning Marajuli Dihagan from the province of Sulu.

Long before their sons wore their badges and their daughter stood in front of a classroom, the Dihagans were already contributors to the community by applying the values they learned at home, sacrifices they made daily, and lessons shared as members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Today, they serve as model family amongst Muslim families in Sulu for their successes and the inspiration they bring to many indigent households.

Dihagan family’s journey with 4Ps began in 2014. At the time, putting food on the table and meeting everyday needs was a constant struggle. Like many parents in similar circumstances, Jura and Roning knew that poverty could easily limit their children’s choices. But they refused to let it define their future.

For Jura and Roning, education is the key to attain success in life. And so, they ensured that their children stayed in school, no matter what difficulty and challenges they’d have to go through, financially, at least. With the support of DSWD’s 4Ps program, the family complied with every program condition to safeguard their vision for their children. This vision includes seeing their children healthy and in school thus, compliance to the program conditions is indispensable. Compliance with the program’s conditions was not merely an obligation, rather, it became a commitment to their children’s education, health, and character formation.

The regular Family Development Sessions (FDS) became the guide in raising the future leaders of the community. The FDS strengthened their resolve to raise their children with respect for learning, service, and community.

The results of that commitment became evident over the years. Their sons, Nurhafidz and Damil, pursued their studies with determination and eventually answered the call to serve the nation as policemen. Jura and Roning’s daughter, Sara Hin, on the other hand, followed her own path of service, becoming a public-school teacher dedicated to shaping young minds. Together, the siblings embody the very idea of public service.

In 2023, the Dihagan family reached a significant milestone. They officially graduated from the 4Ps program as a Self-Sufficient household, the highest level of well-being in the Social Welfare and Development Indicator (SWDI) assessment conducted by the DSWD, annually.

This graduation was more than an exit from a program, rather, it was a recognition of years of discipline, perseverance, and growth. The family now runs a sari-sari store, a charging station, and a piso WiFi Starlink business, providing them with stable income and financial security.

Even as they face health challenges, particularly hypertension, Jura and Roning remain hopeful. Supported by their children and sustained by their small enterprises, they are able to manage their medical needs and maintain a healthier lifestyle.

The story of the Dihagan family is ultimately about raising future public servants long before uniforms and titles came into view. This story also proves that values taught at home, as many 4Ps families continuously, show could ripple outward into communities. Their journey stands as a powerful reminder to other 4Ps households that with responsible parenting, determination, and the right support, poverty can be broken.###

 

Contributors:

Municipal Links: Saddam Hussin M. Kulong, Nikka A. Imdani, Irmina T. Tawasil, RN, Jul-Adzrin M. Amir-Alih