A total of 266 families in Oton, Iloilo, have graduated from the government’s Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) after attaining self-sufficiency, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said.

The families were formally recognized during the Ani 2026 graduation ceremony on Wednesday and turned over to the local government for continued assistance through an aftercare program.

Project Development Officer II Kristy Liza presented the graduates, while Executive Assistant Juan Miguel Flores, representing the mayor’s office, commended them for their perseverance throughout their participation in the program.

Former beneficiary Estrilleta Cagbay of Barangay Sta. Monica became emotional as she recalled how 4Ps helped her provide for the needs of her three monitored children.

Although life remained difficult despite the assistance, the support helped ease the family’s struggles and allowed them to continue working toward a better future, according to a DSWD report.

Former monitored child Ruth Gagnao, now a professional teacher, also credited the program with helping her pursue her education and improve her family’s well-being.

Last week, another 87 families in Guimbal, Iloilo, exited the program after achieving self-sufficiency.

Among them was Ma. Denny Anne Garilao of Barangay Baras, a former 4Ps beneficiary who credited the program and educational scholarships for helping her succeed.

Garilao graduated magna cum laude with a degree in secondary education and passed the May 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers.

“Poverty may limit our resources, but it should never limit our dreams,” she said. (PNA)