DURING the first quarter of this year, 25,904 recipients of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) graduated after becoming self-sufficient.

"The 4Ps Pugay-Tagumpay graduation and exit ceremony is a celebration of the beneficiaries' milestones and highlights the significant achievement that reflects the dedication and hard work of both the beneficiaries and the program implementers," Social Welfare and Development Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said on Thursday.

Social Welfare and Development Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao

The DSWD Field Offices, along with the local government units (LGUs), held graduation and exit ceremonies where the 4Ps graduates were recognized.

Dumlao said Pugay Tagumpay is a recognition given to the beneficiaries whose lives have been changed by the initiative, with involvement from related parties.

"The graduation of these households signifies not only achieving economic stability but also empowering households with newfound competency to cope with challenges and to contribute to the development of their respective communities," she said.

The 4Ps beneficiaries "become active partners in connecting the government's programs and services to other vulnerable and underprivileged families," Dumlao said.

Local government entities will handle aftercare monitoring or additional interventions to maintain the level of well-being of households that were determined to be self-sufficient and those that voluntarily left the program.

"Through initiatives like this, beneficiaries would be equipped with essential skills, knowledge, and resources to pursue sustainable livelihoods and build brighter futures for themselves and their families," Dumlao said.

"By investing in human capital and providing vulnerable families with the tools they need to succeed, the program has made significant steps in reducing poverty and improving the well-being of Filipinos," she said.

The 4Ps is the flagship poverty alleviation program of the government, providing funding for children's health, education and nutrition.