It has been nine (9) months since the COVID-19 Pandemic erupted, and since, most activities of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) were put to a halt, postponed, or cancelled. This includes the annual conduct of national searches such as the Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya, and the Pantawid Exemplary Child.

However, the National Program Management Office – Social Marketing Division (NPMO-SMD) issued a memorandum to modify the searches fit for this new scheme – thus the implementation of the Salaysay ng Buhay ng Pamilyang Pantawid, and Likha ng Bata para sa Bata was held.

These modified searches promote the use of audio-visual materials and online platforms in showcasing the 4Ps beneficiaries’ voice towards the promotion and advocacy for the Program. The Salaysay ng Buhay aims to paint a picture of the family’s experience (struggles) as a household living under poverty, and how they slowly overcame those with the aid of the program.

Rodas family of RTR, Agusan del Norte bagged first place of the said search, followed by Jamorol family of Placer, Surigao del Norte, and Salas family of Tagbina, Surigao del Sur. The families were given cash prizes, and received a plaque of recognition from the NPMO.

To further recognize the efforts of the beneficiaries, some of the Provincial Operations Offices (POOs) led by 4Ps Provincial Links (PL), initiated their own virtual and mobile awarding. The certificates and goods were personally received by the beneficiaries.

“The activity simply exemplified that no pandemic can hinder the efforts of our beneficiaries despite the health crisis the world is facing. With this activity, their efforts were given due credit,” Ruth Tambura, PL of Agusan del Norte, said.

On the other hand, with the recently concluded National Children’s Month, the Likha ng Bata Para sa Bata – Wave 2, aims to showcase the different and unique talents of child-beneficiaries. The second wave circles on the theme related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The POO of Surigao del Sur conducted a virtual awarding for the child beneficiaries. They also extended their gratitude to the Provincial Government and field staff of C/MOOs, for the cooperation and full support that made the virtual activity a success.

The NPMO-SMD proposes to retain the modified searches until 2021 due to the uncertainty of the pandemic may bring. ###(Social Marketing Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga)