Manila: Senator Jinggoy Estrada has introduced a legislative measure aimed at expanding the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and enhancing cash grants to ensure that this vital anti-poverty initiative remains effective for Filipino families.
According to Philippines News Agency, Estrada highlighted that inflation has diminished the value of 4Ps grants and exposed gaps in the program's implementation. This has prompted the need for a more inclusive and comprehensive strategy through Senate Bill 1487, also referred to as the proposed Expanded Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (E4Ps) Act.
Estrada emphasized that while millions have benefited from the 4Ps, the cash grants and sustaining mechanisms have not kept pace with inflation and current realities. He stated that the bill aims to ensure that the program continues to empower the most vulnerable sectors, rather than merely assist them.
A study conducted in 2024 by the Congressional Policy and Budget Research Department revealed that the real value of 4Ps grants has declined by approximately 30 percent since 2019.
Senate Bill 1487 suggests increasing grant amounts by PHP200 to PHP250, introducing new conditional cash grant provisions, and implementing a mandatory yearly review and adjustment based on inflation.
Key reforms in the bill include extending household coverage from seven to 10 years for families who remain poor after the regular program cycle, raising the maximum age of eligible child-beneficiaries from 18 to 22, including households with undernourished children aged 0 to 6, and prioritizing 'food poor' families in the selection of beneficiaries.
Estrada also advocated for adult education as an additional program condition, recognizing the necessity of equipping parents and adult household members with skills that support long-term livelihood. Adult beneficiaries may enroll in Alternative Learning System classes or participate in entrepreneurship and skills training through TESDA, supported by a community mobilization grant to cover meals and transportation.
