Antique: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called on local government units and other relevant government agencies in Antique to gear up for the significant graduation of household beneficiaries enrolled in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
According to Philippines News Agency, Antique Pantawid Provincial Link Jeffrey Gabucay mentioned in an interview that a Local Chief Executive (LCE) forum is scheduled for October 14 and 15 to organize the transition of household beneficiaries. This transition follows the completion of the maximum seven-year term provided under the 4Ps law, Republic Act 11310.
Gabucay emphasized the necessity of preparing for the upcoming large-scale graduation of household beneficiaries in the next year to ensure they continue receiving support to combat poverty. Antique currently supports 23,470 household beneficiaries, including 5,394 households that recently graduated from the program last month.
The 4Ps initiative has been active in Antique since 2009. Gabucay further stated that the forum will serve as a platform for discussions with LCEs and other government bodies on extending support to beneficiaries through livelihood or skills training programs.
Upon graduation, 4Ps members will be transferred to their respective local government units to receive ongoing assistance, as they will no longer qualify for cash grants. A typical 4Ps household beneficiary receives approximately PHP4,500 monthly for children's health and educational expenses, along with a rice subsidy.
