A mother knows what’s best for her children. She ensures their safety and places their well-being above all else. Bound by an unbreakable connection, a mother instinctively senses her children’s pain and shares in their suffering. This is the story of Lilia D. Ambrocio, a 60-year-old solo parent from Purok 4, Ampayon, Butuan City, who now seeks medical assistance for her 22-year-old son who is initially diagnosed with pneumonia by his attending physician.

Raising five children on her own has never been easy for Lilia. To make ends meet, she set up a small store that only provides for the family’s basic needs. With no savings or extra funds for emergencies, her resilience was tested when her eldest son—a construction worker—began experiencing severe coughing, colds, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. The physical demands of his job as a construction worker made his condition worse. As a mother, Lilia couldn’t bear to see her son in pain and tried every possible way to help him recover. After seeking medical advice, doctors recommended several laboratory tests to confirm her son’s condition. These procedures, however, came with significant costs—expenses that Lilia simply could not afford.

Fortunately, compassionate individuals at the hospital referred her to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, where she was able to request medical assistance through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program.

“Salamat kaayo sa DSWD nga natabangan mi… Lisod gyud kaayo kay ako ra man gud. Wala koy katabang o mu-supporta. Kung naa’y problema, ako ra gyud. Ang akong kita sa gamay nga tindahan, kulang ra kaayo,” Lilia said.

“Dili na namo ma-afford ang pang-laboratory kay dako ra kaayo… mapasalamaton gyud mi sa DSWD nga natabangan mi,” she added.

A mother’s love knows no bounds. It overcomes hardships and sacrifices for the sake of her children. DSWD Caraga stands in solidarity with mothers like Lilia—supporting, nurturing, and helping them lead their families toward a safer and healthier life.

If in any crisis situation, do not hesitate to visit DSWD Caraga at R. Palma St., Brgy. Dagohoy, Butuan City. We are ready to assist you.