DSWD considers enhancing Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is considering ways to enhance its Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4PS) in response to Senator Erwin Tulfo's proposal, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s call for amendments to Republic Act 11310.

Tulfo suggested providing livelihood capital instead of cash aid, but DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian emphasized that the program is not under discussion for elimination and that the focus is on enhancing it.

Gemma Gabuya, DSWD 4Ps program director, stated that there's no reason to scrap the program as it has been proven effective in reducing poverty incidence.

The DSWD aims to explore ways such as micro-entrepreneurship and integration of other programs like the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to maximize the potential of its beneficiaries and ensure long-term sustainability.

President Marcos Jr. wants the graduation of 4Ps household beneficiaries to be based on living conditions rather than a fixed seven-year period, aiming for more flexible and tailored support.