Around 400 beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Umingan, Pangasinan, have achieved self-sufficiency and graduated from the program successfully.

One of the program’s beneficiaries, Crisanto Bustamante, shared how the program helped improve his family’s life.

He became a member in 2012 and, over the years, received more than P4,000 every two months, which included educational assistance for his child, rice subsidies, and health benefits.

For Bustamante, the support from 4Ps was crucial in helping his child pursue higher education.

"Huwag malungkot sa ating pagtatapos. Baunin natin ang ating natutunan sa programa, sa pag-aaral ng ating mga anak, kalusugan, at pakikisalamuha sa mamamayan," he said.

As of this writing, his child is a first-year college student pursuing an education course.

The 4Ps, a national government program aimed at improving the health, nutrition, and education of poor families, is supported by Republic Act 11310.

Implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), it has been a lifeline for many families in Umingan.

Evafe Terte, Provincial Link for 4Ps Pangasinan, expressed pride in the program’s impact.

“'Pangarap, may natupad na pangarap?' Yes, malaking pagbabago sa buhay niyo by the time na na-register kayo sa programa,” Terte said.

As the graduates complete their journey in 4Ps, they continue to aspire for a brighter future, holding on to the lessons learned from the program.