From helpless to helpful

Testimony of Reysheil F. Suarez
4Ps Beneficiary

ILOILO CITY (Transformation) – I am Reysheil F. Suarez of Brgy. Airport, Mandurriao district of this city. Two years ago, my life took an unexpected turn when my mother left my four step siblings under my care as she chose to live with her new partner after they were separated with my stepfather.

Seeing her influenced by vices, I feared that the environment would only bring harm to me and my siblings. I could not allow my siblings to live with them. Though I was young and burdened, I chose to protect them. We transferred to my grandmother’s house just within the compound, but it is way safer and gives us peace.

At that time, I was still in college, taking up a Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management at Iloilo City Community College (ICCC), supporting myself and already struggling to survive. Yet, deep within me, I knew I had to step up. I worked multiple part-time jobs as an event coordinator, as a waitress, and also offered pedicure services. I also tried working in a call center, but that didn’t go well, so I stopped after a month and focused on my studies. Life was never easy. Balancing my studies while providing for my siblings felt overwhelming, but I held onto one thing: my belief in the value of education. For me, education is a treasure no one can take away, and I wanted to pass on that gift to my siblings.

With courage in my heart, I trusted God to provide for us in ways beyond my own strength. And true enough, He never failed. In 2023, our household was included in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) as Set 12. Due to my mother’s absence, I stand as a grantee. Conditions of the program were set, and I didn’t worry because my siblings are also dedicated to their studies. I am also the one attending the Family Development Sessions (FDS) if not in conflict with my class schedule.

For the first time I received the cash grants, that moment brought me so much relief, because the financial support from 4Ps helped me buy school supplies, bags, shoes, and uniforms for my siblings. I saw them go to school with confidence, wearing their new things with pride. That simple blessing reminded me that we were not forgotten.

Last year, my mother was brought to prison due to her illegal activity. I was frustrated with the news because whatever she did, she was still our mother. That moment still brings pain to me and my siblings, but life doesn’t wait. Even if I am sad or heartbroken, I have to keep going.

In my last year in college, I was fortunate enough to be included in the 50-day Cash for Work program for graduating students of ICCC. The DSWD is also the proponent of this program. I was assigned to the Office of Civil Defense. It greatly helped me finish my senior year and provided financial aid for my graduation expenses. After years of struggles, I finally earned my degree this June 2025. I am blessed enough that I am now employed and earning enough to sustain our family.

Looking back, I can say with certainty that the 4Ps has been a lifeline for us. It gave me the strength to continue supporting my siblings and showed me that even in the hardest times, there are ways to survive. Every family in the 4Ps carries a different story and struggle, but one thing is sure: the program offers hope and a chance to dream bigger.

To those who may be in a situation similar to mine, I want to share this: never give up. Hardships may test your spirit, but they will also mold you into someone stronger and wiser. Hold on to your dreams, value education, and be courageous enough to stand for your family when no one else can. Most of all, keep your faith in God. When life feels impossible, He will open doors you never thought existed.

Finally, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the 4Ps. It is more than just financial aid; it is a bridge that allowed me to provide for my siblings when I felt most helpless. For that, I will always be thankful. Our journey is far from perfect, but it is proof that love, faith, and determination can hold a family together even in the darkest of times. And someday, when my siblings achieve their dreams, I know all the struggles and every bit of help we received will be worth it. (Submitted by Ashlyn Grace A. Eucogco, Mandurriao City Link, Iloilo POO) mgc