ILOILO CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office VI through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) turned over 276 households from Jaro District to the Local Government Unit of Iloilo City yesterday.

This important event took place at the Quintin Salas Gymnasium in Jaro here marking a significant milestone for the community. The ceremony was graced by DSWD-6 Regional Director Atty. Carmelo N. Nochete and a representative from the Iloilo City Government. Their presence emphasized the importance of the occasion and partnership between the Department and LGU.

One of the graduates, Mrs. Rosemarie Pacullo, 58 years old and a mother of nine from Brgy. Lanit, shared her testimony of how the program changes their life and status. She thanked the program for all the support, knowledge and opportunities given to them.

“I am deeply grateful to the program because it helped me send my children to school. Now, I have one seaman, two teachers, and one lawyer, she said.

Pacullo added that in 2009, their household was qualified to be the beneficiary of the program. That year also she started receiving the cash grant for their three monitored children.

“It provided significant assistance for our family’s health and the essential needs of our children. It also strengthened our marital relationship through monthly attendance at the Family Development Session (FDS). Many people doubted me at first because I had many children, and they thought I wouldn’t be able to send them all to school. But I persevered to prove that poverty is not a hindrance to achieving dreams in life. Hard work, perseverance, and faith in God are the keys to my family’s success, she shared.

Pacullo’s inspiring story is a testament to the power of determination and support in overcoming challenges. Her success echoes the achievements of all the graduates, who have worked tirelessly to improve their lives as well as their communities.

This graduation ceremony is not just an end, but a new beginning filled with hope and opportunities for everyone involved particularly that they were already turned over to the LGU for aftercare program. (with reports from Iloilo SDA Focal Nelson Calacasan)