Sigfrid Garwil Bugas, a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) residing in Cabadbaran City, Agusan Del Norte, has ranked 6th in the recently concluded Licensure Examination for Social Workers.

A son of a utility worker and a housewife, Sigfrid is the second of Analyn and Godofredo Bugas’ children. The family faced significant financial hardships that shaped Sigfrid’s journey. When his father, a dedicated security guard, lost his job due to uncontrollable circumstances, the family of six plunged into uncertainty. For nearly a month, the father’s struggle to find work forced him into various labor-intensive roles—carpentry, construction, caretaking, and gardening—yet these efforts were insufficient to meet their basic needs, especially with many children still in school.

The Bugas Family on Sigfrid’s graduation day

To support the family, Sigfrid’s sister became a working student. Compounding their difficulties, damaged summer crops led to a poor harvest and deepening debt. In response, the mother turned to herbal networking for extra income.

“Makita sab nako unsa kastress si mama sa pagbudget sa gamay na sweldo ni papa maong gaapil sab si mama adtong mga networking herbal company para makaincome ginagmay. Mao bitaw dakog tabang gyud ang 4Ps sa amoa kay naay gyud time bisag unsaon pagkugi sa trabaho kung ang kita dili enough, maglisod gyud gihapon,” he said.

The 4Ps program provided crucial support, ensuring they could navigate these challenging years during Sigfrid’s high school education.

Sigfrid’s journey through college was significantly bolstered by scholarships that alleviated financial burdens and supported his academic pursuits. As a Local Government Unit (LGU) Scholar, he received vital assistance that covered essential needs such as a laptop, travel fees, books, and other educational expenses.

Additionally, he was awarded the GSII scholarship, generously supported by a Charity Shop in Ireland, which became a lifeline during a particularly challenging period when the local water stream ceased to flow, complicating daily life. As the costs of college escalated, Sigfrid recognized the need for further financial aid and applied for the GSII scholarship, which provided not only free room and electricity but also rice, significantly easing his living expenses.

Beyond the financial relief, the scholarship’s emphasis on spiritual activities fostered personal growth, enhancing Sigfrid’s mindset and character, which proved invaluable as he navigated the demands of his studies and preparation for the Licensure Exam for Social Workers.

4Ps’ Impact on the Family’s Wellbeing
The 4Ps program profoundly impacted Sigfrid’s family, particularly in addressing their basic needs and supporting educational expenses. While Sigfrid believes that his family does not rely solely on the program—thanks to his parents’ relentless work ethic—the financial assistance provided a crucial safety net during tough times, helping to bridge gaps when needed.

“Aside from that, the Family Development Sessions provided an opportunity for my parents to be more effective in parenting us as they learned various concepts under the family development. I can observe that they really applied what they have learned because we are now a happy, healthy and empowered family,” he added.

Sigfred Bugas during a Group work session for Finanacial Management
with Bibingka Vendors in Cabadbaran City, Agusan Del Norte

This holistic support system not only alleviated their financial challenges but also strengthened their familial bonds, laying a solid foundation for Sigfrid’s own aspirations and eventual success as a topnotcher in the Licensure Exam for Social Workers.

Sigfrid’s Hurdles Leading Up to the Licensure Examination
As Sigfrid prepared for the Licensure Exam for Social Workers, he faced significant mental challenges stemming primarily from his family’s financial situation rather than external pressures. His ambition to top the board exam was fueled by the belief that achieving this goal would unlock greater opportunities for himself and his family.

Although he initially felt confident, self-doubt began to seep in during the formal review and final coaching sessions, particularly when he realized his practice scores weren’t at the top level. This anxiety led him to question whether he would even pass, and the mounting pressure adversely affected his performance.

On the night before the exam, he only managed two hours of sleep, resulting in sleepiness and difficulty concentrating during the test. Despite these challenges, Sigfrid found motivation in practical goals: the desire to inherit his father’s land, build a family home for their caretaking duties, and support his younger siblings’ education. These aspirations propelled him forward, reminding him of the importance of persevering through adversity, ultimately contributing to his remarkable success as a topnotcher in the exam.

“I am practical at that time and ana kos akong kaugalingon na tarungon nako ni kay lukaton pa nako ang yuta ni tatay, magpatukod mig kaugalingong balay since house care-taker man mi ron, and pa–eskwelahan pa nako akong mga manghud,” Sigfrid emphasized.

His Message to his Fellow 4Ps Beneficiaries
Sigfrid’s message to his fellow 4Ps beneficiaries is one of hope and resilience, emphasizing that difficulties should not be viewed as barriers to achieving dreams; rather, it is one’s response to these challenges that can turn them into obstacles. He urges them to reflect on a crucial question: will they give up or actively seek solutions? Sigfrid highlights the wealth of opportunities available for success, including individual skills, support from others, and unwavering faith in God.

Sharing his personal journey, he proudly attests to being a testament to God’s goodness, having achieved a remarkable position as a topnotcher in the Licensure Exam. He recalls a dream he had about the number six before the exam, initially doubting its significance but later recognizing it as a beacon of encouragement.

“Ana sila na ang Kalisod kay dili babag sa pagkab-ot sa pangandoy. Well, i would not believe in that kay babag man gyud ang kalisod but the question is unsa imong response sa mga kalisod na imong nasinati para dili mahimong babag? Gipasadgan raba nimo or nangita kag pamaagi? After all, daghan opportunity to remain victorious. Naa imong kaugalingon, imohang hanaw og abilidad, naay mga tao or ahensya andam mutabang sa imoha. Lastly, naa tay Ginoo na atong masampitan,” he added.

Despite facing significant financial challenges and mental hurdles, Sigfrid remained focused on his goals, driven by a deep understanding of the struggles faced by those in poverty. His commitment to social work stems from a heartfelt desire to empower others, reminding us all that difficulties can be catalysts for change rather than insurmountable barriers. Through his unwavering belief in the importance of hard work, and the support of the 4Ps Program, Sigfrid exemplifies how dreams can be realized through perseverance and faith. He encourages his fellow 4Ps Beneficiaries to embrace opportunities, seek solutions, and recognize that with determination and support, they too can forge their paths to success.