One young woman’s story reflects the essence of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) —turning hardship into drive, and support into success. 

 Mica Bonggoc, an 18-year-old Grade 12 student from the small village of Ableg in Pasil, Kalinga recently completed her Work Immersion training at the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) – Pasil. During her training, she actively assisted the personnel in their daily operations. She helped in encoding important data and documents. She also lent a hand in preparing reports and performing other office support tasks. This hands-on experience allowed her to apply what she learned in school, familiarize herself with government work processes, and develop skills essential for her future career, putting her years of learning into practice and taking her first real step toward the future she has long imagined.

“Bago po kami maging benepisyaryo, hirap ang aming pamilya, kulang ang pera sa pag-aaral at pangangailangan ,mahirap mamuhay ng maayos”(“Before we became beneficiaries, life was hard for our family. We lacked money for school and other needs, making it difficult to live comfortably.”) she shared. 

Before being part of the Program, every day was a struggle for Mica and her family. Her parents’ income was never enough to cover all expenses, including her school needs. There were days when discouragement felt heavy, and dreams seemed distant. But the Program became the turning point, providing not just cash grants, but stability, peace of mind, and the chance to focus on what mattered most – finishing school and building a better life. What made this journey possible was not just hard work, but also the steady, life-changing support of the 4Ps. 

For Mica and her family, the assistance provided by 4Ps covers their educational and health needs. The program gives financial support that is used for her school requirements, project, and daily allowances, allowing her to finishher studies without interruption.This holistic support gave her opportunityto focus on her studies and finish her Work Immersion successfully.

“Malaki ang tulong ng 4Ps, nakakatulong sa gastusin sa paaralan at pang-araw-araw na pangangailangan, mas madali na magpatuloy sa pag-aaral at abutin ang pangarap.” (“4Ps is a huge help. It helps with school expenses and daily needs, making it easier for me to continue my studies and reach my dreams.”) she said. 

According to her, their family’s active participation in the various Family Development Sessions and Youth Development Sessions helped them relate with other 4Ps beneficiaries and learn life and social skills in the process.

Mica held fast to her simple yet powerful goal – to finish her studies, land a stable job, and give back to the family that stood by her. Her journey is a testament to how assistance, when combined with determination, creates lasting change, not just for one person, but for an entire household.

Today, as she serves at BFP-Pasil and prepares for graduation, Mica carries with her the lessons of resilience and gratitude. Her story highlights that the support of 4Ps goes beyond financial aid – it ensures continuous education, and instills values of discipline and responsibility. 

From humble beginnings to purposeful steps forward, she shows that with the right support and unwavering will, every dream can stand tall. # DSWD FIELD OFFICE CAR, SOCIAL MARKETING UNIT, GRECHELL CRISOSTOMO (SMU Intern)