4Ps Monitored Child Opts To Pay It Forward

Testimony of Eden May R. Villanueva
LGU-Link
Former 4Ps beneficiary

BURUANGA, Aklan- Public service has been in my heart since early childhood since I started leading the youth and community when I was elected as a Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Kagawad in our village.

To know me well, I am Eden May Villanueva, 23 years old, the eldest child of Emalyn and Efren Villanueva. I grew up in a humble home in Brgy. Poblacion, of this municipality where every day was a challenge for our family.

We are five siblings, and in our small house, we constantly felt the weight of poverty. There were moments when I would ask myself, “Will any of us ever finish school? Will any of us achieve success through education?”
Our greatest struggle was the lack of financial stability. My parents worked hard from farming to labor, since they didn’t have permanent jobs. Every peso they earned was just enough for our daily food and basic needs.
But in the midst of those hardships and struggles came a great blessing when our household became a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in 2011. Through the program’s support and our strong determination to study, hope began to grow in our hearts. The 4Ps became the bridge that allowed us to pursue our education and dream of a better life.

Aside from 4Ps, I was also fortunate to receive scholarships and assistance from various organizations that believed in my potential. All these programs worked hand in hand to help lift our family and give us a chance for a brighter future.

One of the proudest moments of my life was when I graduated Cum Laude. An opportunity knocked when I decided to apply as a 4Ps LGU Link in our town, a role that allows me to give back and serve the community that once helped me.

So starting July 2025, I serve as an LGU Link. This achievement is not mine alone; it is a product of my hard work, my faith in God, and the unwavering support of my family, friends, and the 4Ps program.
On November 28, 2025, our household has already exited the program due to self -sufficiency.

PARTICIPATION
As a former beneficiary of the 4Ps program and now an LGU-Link, I am committed to assisting current beneficiaries with their program compliance requirements. Furthermore, I support the Municipal Link by aiding in Family Development Sessions (FDS) and house visits, as well as providing assistance with logistic arrangements.
I contribute to my community in several ways. As a former SK Kagawad in our barangay, I was involved with youth programs that encouraged participation in sports and community activities. My family participates in neighborhood clean-up drives and supports local businesses.

Additionally, through my involvement with 4Ps, in collaboration with the MSWDO of the Municipality of Buruanga, we organize food drives for families in need during disasters and other social welfare activities for the community.

To my fellow Filipinos who are facing difficulties, I want to say this: never lose hope. know how it feels to struggle, but remember, every challenge comes with a hidden blessing. Believe in yourself, work hard, and trust in God’s plan. Education is one of the most powerful keys to overcoming poverty.
As a former 4Ps beneficiary, I hope to be an inspiration to others. I am living proof that even if we come from humble beginnings, we can still rise, succeed, and serve others. Through perseverance, faith, and unity, nothing is impossible. Let’s continue to fight for a better life and a brighter tomorrow. (Submitted by: MOO Buruanga)

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