Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has urged beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to take advantage of the Enhanced Lifeline Program (ELP) offered by Maynilad and Manila Water. The initiative comes in response to the expected rise in water and electricity consumption during the approaching holiday season.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized the importance of this program, noting that it offers discounted rates to low-income households that use 10 cubic meters or less of water per month. She expressed the department's encouragement for 4Ps beneficiaries to register and avail themselves of the lifeline rate program to help manage their utility expenses.

To benefit from the program, Dumlao outlined that applicants should present their 4Ps ID, a valid government-issued ID with a signature and address, a completed application form, and the most recent proof of billing at any helpdesk or business area office of Maynilad or Manila Water. Additionally, non-4Ps beneficiaries living below the poverty threshold as defined by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in 2023 are also eligible to apply, provided they have certification from their Local Social Welfare and Development Office (LSWDO).

The 4Ps program, launched in 2008 and institutionalized through Republic Act No. 11310, represents the government's primary initiative to combat poverty by investing in the health, nutrition, and education of children from underprivileged households.