Senator Calls to Scrap 4Ps Program
MANILA, Philippines – Senator Erwin Tulfo has urged the government to scrap the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, commonly known as 4Ps, and instead provide beneficiaries with capital to start their own livelihoods. He cited numerous reports of abuses within the 4Ps program as a driving reason for this call.
During his time as secretary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in 2022, Tulfo personally heard the same concerns from many 4Ps members. They expressed frustration over being labeled freeloaders and lazy despite their efforts.
“It is hard for them to hear that they are being called freeloaders, lazy, and that they do not add value to the country,” Tulfo said. He described the monthly cash transfers as mere “giving alms,” which does little to empower beneficiaries.
Livelihood Capital as a Sustainable Solution
Instead of monthly handouts, Tulfo proposed providing livelihood capital to help recipients start small businesses. “If we give them capital, they can use it to start businesses and contribute to the economy,” he added. Examples include setting up sari-sari stores, eateries, or engaging in online selling.
As chair of the Senate committee on social justice, welfare, and rural development, Tulfo stressed that providing capital could address many of the abuses reported in the 4Ps program.
He plans to raise this proposal in an upcoming meeting with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian. “We know that since PBBM’s term started, the priority has been poverty mitigation. But the question is: how do we really do this?” Tulfo remarked.
Addressing Systemic Fairness and Program Limits
Tulfo also highlighted an imbalance in government aid. He noted that low-wage workers such as security guards, janitors, and house helpers often tighten their budgets but receive no assistance since they do not qualify for 4Ps benefits.
Committed to improving the program, Tulfo supports reviewing Republic Act No. 11310, which institutionalized 4Ps. The DSWD has proposed amendments, including removing the seven-year limit on beneficiary assistance.
Other suggested reforms include creating entrepreneurship programs for low-income families, social support for the elderly, and formally integrating existing initiatives like the Sustainable Livelihood Program and Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services.
These changes aim to make poverty reduction efforts more effective and equitable for Filipinos in need.
For more news and updates on Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, visit Filipinokami.com.
