BOTOLAN, Zambales – About 160 households in Botolan, Zambales graduated from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) after overcoming poverty and achieving self-sufficiency.
Their case folders were officially endorsed by the Municipal Action Team to the local government, led by Zambales 2nd district representative Doris Maniquiz and Mayor Jun Omar Ebdane, further solidifying the transition from the 4Ps program to broader community support.
During the Pugay Tagumpay ceremony, DSWD Assistant Secretary for the Conditional Cash Transfer Group Marites Maristela lauded the 4Ps graduates for their perseverance and commitment.
“We know your journey has not been easy. Some of you are solo parents, persons with disabilities, farmers, fisherfolk, and from various indigenous communities—but you proved that poverty is not a barrier to progress,” she pressed.
The municipal government committed to continue supporting these families by offering livelihood assistance, employment opportunities, scholarships, social protection services, and other government programs to sustain their progress.
Among the graduates, Dahlia Panes Doble shared her story of transformation—from being a Modified Conditional Cash Transfer member in Barangay Villar to becoming a licensed Alternative Learning System (ALS) teacher.
“Now, at this very moment, I stand before you with a full heart as proof that the support and guidance of the program can truly change lives. Through the Family Development Sessions, I learned to manage money wisely, value time with family, prepare for disasters through E-Balde, and most of all, value education,” Doble said.
Doble recounted that before joining 4Ps, finishing her studies seemed impossible. With the program’s support, she was able to enroll in ALS, complete her secondary education, and pass the assessment exam.
Encouraged by this achievement, she pursued a Bachelor of Elementary Education at the Polytechnic College of Botolan.
Her persistence paid off when she successfully passed the Licensure Examination for Teachers.
“The blessings didn’t stop there. I am now a permanent DepEd teacher serving as an ALS educator. As a product of ALS, I deeply understand the value of education, especially for youth like me who once lost hope. Now, as a teacher, I strive to be an inspiration to learners who dream of graduating—regardless of age or status,” she said.
Doble also expressed her gratitude to DSWD and everyone behind the 4Ps program.
“As I officially exit 4Ps, I carry immense gratitude. The program helped not only in my personal growth but in uplifting my entire family. Now, we have a stronger future, and I am ready to give way to others who need the program more. To DSWD and everyone behind 4Ps, thank you so much. I would not have reached this success without the support and trust you gave me,” she said. (CLJD/RGP, PIA Region 3-Zambales)