Health has always been a major component of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. However, the collaboration between the Rural Health Unit (RHU) of Lingig and the 4Ps Program was further strengthened during the Municipal Convergence Action Committee (MCAC) Meeting on June 13, 2017. It was during this gathering that direct communication and coordination with the Municipal Operations Office – Lingig formally started, paving the way for more synchronized service delivery to 4Ps beneficiaries. The RHU recognized the potential of the 4Ps not only in alleviating poverty but also in addressing the health issues of the poorest households in the community. From there, a meaningful partnership was formed, focused on improving access to health services, promoting health awareness, and meeting the program’s health conditionalities.

Through the years, the RHU has provided services such as regular health check-ups, immunizations, prenatal and postnatal care, family planning counseling, and nutrition education. These services are crucial for 4Ps households, many of whom face challenges in accessing proper healthcare due to distance, financial constraints, or lack of information.

The RHU also plays a key role during Family Development Sessions (FDS) by sending medical staff to discuss important health topics such as disease prevention, hygiene, reproductive health, and proper child nutrition. This collaboration helps raise awareness and equips beneficiaries with the knowledge and habits that lead to healthier lifestyles.

Every month, the RHU ensures that the children of 4Ps families receive regular weight monitoring, and that pregnant and lactating women receive the care and guidance they need. They also assist in tracking compliance with health conditionalities, working hand-in-hand with the Municipal Link and other program staff.

In January 2025, the LGU conducted a major initiative called the Barangayanihan Caravan, a program that aims to bring government services closer to the people. One of the key features of this caravan was the provision of health services, where 4Ps beneficiaries were the main recipients. During the caravan, the RHU led several activities, including feeding programs for undernourished children, free medical check-ups for all ages, and distribution of free vitamins and medicines to families in need. These efforts highlighted their commitment to making health services accessible and inclusive, especially for marginalized sectors like the 4Ps households.

In reviewing the 4Ps program, the RHU believes that 4Ps can further enhance its services by focusing more on health education and mental health support. While the current focus on physical health is impactful, the integration of psychosocial support and mental health awareness can address issues like stress, anxiety, and depression, especially among youth and solo parents in the program. The RHU commits to being at the forefront of this initiative by training barangay health workers and parent leaders to recognize early signs of mental distress, organizing mental health forums for parents and children, and providing accessible counseling and referral services to those in need.

Through these continued efforts, the RHU has seen significant improvements in the lives of 4Ps families. Children are healthier, mothers are more aware and proactive in their healthcare responsibilities, and families are more empowered to make informed decisions regarding their well-being.

As the RHU looks forward, they remain committed to their advocacy that “Good health is the foundation of a strong, self-sufficient family.” By sustaining this partnership with the 4Ps program and introducing more responsive health interventions, they hope to continue uplifting lives, one healthy family at a time.

Together, they envision a community where health and hope go hand in handnurturing a generation that is not only free from illness but also filled with purpose and resilience.