Natonin, Mountain Province – For years, life was never easy for the Lihoc family. Their father, the late Mario Binay-o Lihoc, worked as a laborer, while their mother, the late Lydia Pur-ayan Lihoc, stayed at home Barangay Alunoga to care for their children. With no stable source of income, the family often struggled to meet their basic needs, including healthcare and school expenses. 

Despite financial hardship, their parents remained steadfast in their dream of sending all their children to school. That dream found vital support when the family became beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) during the children’s grade school years. 

Through regular cash grants and participation in Family Development Sessions (FDS), the program provided not only financial relief but also valuable lessons that strengthened their social, behavioral, and family foundations. The assistance became a crucial partner in achieving the parents’ goal of education for their children.

In 2016, the family faced a heartbreaking loss with the passing of their father. Life grew even more challenging, but with the help of relatives and their eldest brother, they persevered. They temporarily stayed with relatives and grandparents to continue their education. 

Tragedy struck again in 2021 when their mother succumbed to sickness. Despite losing both parents, the family remained beneficiaries of the program, which continued to support the education of the younger siblings. The sustained assistance and guidance from FDS empowered them to stay focused and determined. 

“We are proud to be graduating 4Ps household,” said Mylene Lihoc, the second of the siblings. “Our journey reflects the true goal of the program to help families rise from poverty and become empowered, independent, and hopeful beyond assistance.” As they exit the program, the Lihoc family expresses deep gratitude for the support that helped shape their journey. They now share their story to other deserving families, hopeful that the program will continue transforming lives, just as it did theirs.// with reports from Jennifer A. Feranil, Student Intern – Abra State Institute Sciences and Technology