In Barangay Maria, Laua-an, Antique, lives Raymund Agting, a devoted father of two. For nearly five years, Raymund worked in a private company in Manila, earning Php9,000.00 per month to support his family’s needs.

The job provided a steady income, but he still dreamed of doing what he truly loved, cutting hair. He had always been skilled with scissors and clippers and dreamed of becoming a barber. Eventually, he made a life-changing decision to return home, reunite with his family, and pursue his dream by opening his own barbershop.

The business began to steadily grow, gradually establishing a stable source of income. However, his wife fell seriously ill, and the cost of her medical treatment took a heavy toll on their finances. Raymund worked overtime in his shop, doing everything he could to cover the growing expenses. Despite his efforts, their savings depleted. Still, Raymund chose to face these challenges with resilience, a positive outlook, and strong faith in God.

Sadly, in April 2020, Raymund’s wife passed away due to a brain tumor. Her death left him not only grieving but also taking on the full responsibility of raising their two children alone.

“I knew nothing about raising children by myself,” he admits.

Raymund struggled with loneliness together with the emotional and physical demands of single parenthood. Traditionally, he had seen mothers as the primary nurturers, while fathers provided financially. Now, he had to embrace both roles.

Despite the hardships, Raymund kept moving forward. In June 2024, a turning point came when he became a beneficiary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSWD-SLP). Through the program’s Livelihood Assistance Fund, he received Php15,000, which he used to buy essential tools such as scissors, a barber’s cape, a chair, and other equipment for his barbershop. These upgrades allowed him to serve more clients and enhance the quality of his services.

With new resources and determination, Raymund’s barbershop began to flourish. He now earns around Php1,200 per day or at least Php30,000 per month. This income helped him to support his children’s daily needs and education, giving them a more secure future.

Raymund knows that the journey of being a widowed father is filled with ups and downs. Yet, through treasured memories of his late wife, unwavering faith, and a steadfast commitment to his children, he continues to move forward. He is deeply thankful to the DSWD-SLP for the opportunity to sustain his livelihood and provide for his family.

For Raymund, life continues with hope, purpose, and love which is anchored in the strength of a father’s devotion./dswd6/cdf/Ailyn Denosta