TACLOBAN CITY – Inspired by the success of small businesses during his two terms as governor, Northern Samar 2nd District Rep. Edwin Ongchuan wants to integrate a livelihood component in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
Ongchuan introduced House Bill No. 604 which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 11310 or the 4Ps Law to include livelihood and self-reliance as among the focus of the program.
“With this legislative proposal, the future of 4Ps is not only about surviving poverty but also about finally escaping it,” Ongchuan said.
He said that while 4Ps has long provided crucial financial assistance to poor families to support children’s education, health, and nutrition, the proposed bill introduces the integration of skills development and livelihood training.
Under his bill, household-beneficiaries will not only receive enhanced cash grants but will also be required to complete at least two accredited livelihood or skills training programs offered by government agencies such as TESDA, DTI, DOLE, DOST, DA, and DSWD, among others.
Ongchuan explains that his proposal signals a shift toward a more holistic, long-term approach to poverty alleviation.
“Rather than relying solely on monthly support, families will be given the opportunity to learn marketable skills, start small enterprises, or qualify for employment paving the way for self-sufficiency and financial independence. The inclusion of livelihood as a conditional requirement reflects a deepening of the program’s purpose to not just to assist, but to empower as well,” he said.
The bill also raises the baseline amounts for educational and health grants to adjust for inflation and increasing costs of living. He said this is to ensure that support remains relevant to the actual needs of the beneficiaries while incentivizing continued participation in the program.
If passed into law, Ongchuan said the 4Ps program will build capacity, foster dignity, and open doors to sustainable livelihoods.
“By combining conditional support with livelihood training, the measure strengthens the bridge between welfare and work—turning short-term support into long-term opportunity,” he said.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews