THE RECENT announcement that over 115,000 households in Western Visayas have exited the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is, without a doubt, a milestone. It signifies progress, not just in the numbers but in the lives of families who have transitioned toward economic self-sufficiency.
However, “graduation” from 4Ps does not equate to immunity from poverty. For these households, the journey beyond graduation presents new challenges that require continuous support to sustain their gains.
The success of 4Ps should not only be measured by the number of graduates but by how well these graduates thrive beyond the program. Indeed, former beneficiaries, now classified as “self-sufficient”, may still find themselves vulnerable to economic shocks. Illness in the family, natural disasters, or inflationary pressures can easily undo years of progress. Without the safety net of 4Ps, they risk slipping back into poverty. This is particularly true for those whose livelihoods remain fragile or heavily reliant on seasonal income.
The shift from dependency to self-reliance also requires behavioral and financial adjustments. Graduating households need access to robust livelihood programs, entrepreneurial training, and employment opportunities to solidify their economic footing. Education support, even after exiting the program, remains crucial for families with older children pursuing higher education or vocational training.
Also, the social dynamics of graduation often go unaddressed. Beneficiaries transitioning out of 4Ps may feel a loss of community support and government engagement, which have been instrumental during their time in the program. Local government units (LGUs) must bridge this gap through consistent aftercare initiatives.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Region 6 has taken an important step by turning over these households to LGUs for aftercare programs. However, the success of this transition depends largely on the readiness and resources of local governments. Livelihood initiatives must be tailored to the specific needs of communities, ensuring sustainable outcomes.
Graduating households also need continuous monitoring to address any signs of regression. This could involve regular check-ins, skills training, or facilitating access to microfinance and agricultural subsidies. Collaborative efforts between national agencies, LGUs, and private sectors can create a more comprehensive support system.
The fight against poverty does not end with exiting a welfare program; it evolves into equipping families to withstand challenges independently. Sustaining these gains is as important as achieving them. For the 115,000 households in Western Visayas who have taken this significant step, the road ahead is full of promise and uncertainty. Let us ensure that their transition is a bridge to enduring self-sufficiency, not a detour back to the cycle of poverty.
