Iloilo: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 6, covering the Western Visayas region, is urging beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), especially pregnant women and those with children aged zero to two years, to participate in the First 1000 Days (F1KD) program.

According to Philippines News Agency, Belen Gebusion, the DSWD-6 4Ps Division Chief, reported that as of March 31, 7,210 eligible beneficiaries have been validated. This group includes 628 pregnant women and 6,528 young children from the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo.

The F1KD program is designed to provide an additional PHP350 monthly cash grant, supplementing the existing PHP750 health grant given to 4Ps households. The initiative aims to promote proper nutrition and early childhood development during a child's critical first 1,000 days.

Gebusion emphasized the significance of the program and appealed for media support to boost awareness and participation. She highlighted that pregnant women must undergo prenatal checkups and attend Family Development Sessions to qualify for the program. Additionally, beneficiaries are reminded to submit their children's birth certificates to their field workers for inclusion in the program.