4, 848 households graduate from 4Ps in Aklan

KALIBO, Aklan – A total of 4,848 households who are 4Ps beneficiaries from 17 towns in this province, graduated from the program during the simultaneous turnover and graduation ceremonies (ANI) in three separate events conducted from November 25-26 to 27-28, and December 1, 2025.

Majority of this year’s graduating households have achieved Level 3 of well-being, which signifies their self-sufficiency. Other household graduates have no eligible children to be monitored by the program.

The following are the number of graduates per municipality: Altavas-352; Balete-369; Banga-305; Batan-321; Buruanga-182; Ibajay-332; Kalibo-395; Lezo-83; Libacao-162; Madalag-271; Makato-184; Malay-616; Malinao-134; Nabas-284; New Washington-635; Numancia-123; & Tangalan-100.

The graduation ceremonies feature relevant reflections from the graduated households, who shared their journeys, including both challenges and triumphs, illustrating how the 4Ps has played a vital role in their lives.

Rexil G. Delos Santos, Teacher I from Numancia, Aklan, speaker during ANI, emphasized the difficulties faced by 4Ps families. While some outsiders may perceive the cash grants as ample support, they often overlook the daily struggles to survive as well as raising a family.

Despite these challenges, Rexil notes that 4Ps families have learned resilience and determination in overcoming life’s obstacles. He often reflects on how he can help his family rise above poverty. Witnessing his parents’ diligent efforts, he understands that the essence of the program transcends financial assistance; it fosters values, transformation, and hope in the face of adversity.

Meanwhile, Ailene Sallador, a 4Ps grantee from Makato, Aklan, also shares her journey of gratitude as her household exits the program. Alongside her husband, who works as a fish dealer, Ailene engages in various activities to support their five children.

“I sell fish balls and kakanin to contribute to our daily needs, and I take pride in these honest sources of income,” she expresses.

Their hard work has borne fruit, as one of their children graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Information Technology and is now employed on a cruise ship, while another one has completed a degree in Criminology.

For Ailene, the success of her children represents not only the fulfillment of their dreams but also their aspirations of her and her husband as parents. The 4Ps program has thus been instrumental in transforming their lives and achieving their shared goals.

This activity also highlights the vital role of the local government unit (LGU) in providing aftercare services to 4Ps households, aimed at preventing them from sliding back into poverty.

The commitment of each LGU in Aklan is clearly demonstrated through its Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) along with other supporting agencies, all of which work collaboratively to ensure the effective implementation of the 4Ps program. (By: Aklan SDA Focal Person Nirvana Bulacan)mgc