Testimony of Anthony U. Villar

Teacher III – 4Ps Focal Person

Basio National High School

IVISAN, Capiz – My name is Anthony Unating Villar, a 38-year-old Teacher III at Basiao National High School in Brgy. Basiao of this town. I am married and blessed with three children. Since 2011, I have served as the focal person for the Pantawid Pamilya Pilipino Program (4Ps) in our school, a role that has profoundly influenced my life, work, community, and students.

When I first took on the role of 4Ps focal person, I was eager but uncertain about the challenges ahead. The program aimed to provide financial assistance to underprivileged families, ensuring their children could attend school regularly. My task was to oversee its implementation and ensure its success in our school and community.

Over the years, the 4Ps program has been a catalyst for my personal growth. Attending various seminars and training sessions has broadened my knowledge and skills. These experiences have not only made me a more effective teacher but also helped me discover my potential as a leader and mentor.

The training sessions I attended through the 4Ps have equipped me with innovative teaching strategies. I have learned to incorporate these techniques into my classroom, resulting in improved student engagement and academic performance. This professional development has been invaluable in my journey as an educator.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role has been the opportunity to build connections with fellow educators and community leaders. Through the program, I have met many like-minded individuals who share my passion for education and community development. These connections have enriched my professional network and provided a support system.

As a coach for the Search for 4Ps Exemplary Children, I have witnessed the transformative impact of the program on our students. The financial support provided by the program has enabled many students to overcome barriers to education, leading to higher academic achievements and personal growth. By working closely with families and students, we have been able to address various challenges and promote the importance of education. This collaborative effort has strengthened the bonds within our community.

As our initiative in school, we have empowered families to take an active role in their children’s education. Regular meetings and workshops have provided parents with the knowledge and tools they need to support their children’s academic journey. This empowerment has led to increased school attendance and participation in community activities. The journey has not been without its challenges. There have been times when we faced resistance or encountered obstacles in implementing the program however, with determination and the support of the community as well as parents, we have been able to overcome these challenges and continue our mission.

One of the highlights of my role has been celebrating the successes of our students. Seeing them excel academically and personally has been incredibly rewarding. These achievements are a testament to the positive impact of the 4Ps program and the hard work of everyone involved. My role as a focal person has also enhanced my leadership skills. I have learned to manage and coordinate various activities, mentor my colleagues, and lead by example. This growth in leadership has been instrumental in my overall development as an educator.

In addition to my work at the school, I have been involved in various community projects aimed at improving the lives of our residents. These projects, often in collaboration with local organizations, have addressed issues such as health, sanitation, and livelihood opportunities. The 4Ps instilled in me a love for lifelong learning. The continuous training and development opportunities have kept me updated with the latest educational trends and practices. This commitment to learning has been crucial in my journey as an educator.

As a focal person, I have had the privilege of inspiring others to take an active role in their communities. Whether it is encouraging parents to support their children’s education or motivating students to strive for excellence, I have seen the ripple effect of my efforts.

The success of the 4Ps program would not have been possible without strong partnerships with various stakeholders through collaborating with local government units, non-governmental organizations, and other educational institutions has been key to our achievements. The role of a focal person has brought immense personal fulfillment. Knowing that my efforts have made a difference in the lives of many families and students is incredibly gratifying. This sense of purpose has been a driving force in my career.

Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing my work with the 4Ps program and exploring new ways to support our community. I aspire to further enhance our initiatives and ensure that every child especially the 4Ps monitored children in Basiao National High School has access to quality education. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and experiences that the 4Ps program has provided.

As I reflect on my journey, I hope to leave a lasting legacy of positive change in our community. I want to be remembered as someone who dedicated his life to education and community development, making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. (Submitted by Ivisan Municipal Link, Ronelyn Necesito of Capiz POO)