A 4Ps child’s journey from beneficiary to educational leader

Testimony by: ALVIN JOY C. LACHICA
Head Teacher-III – Progreso Elementary School
Former 4Ps beneficiary

AJUY, Iloilo – As a former beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), I have experienced firsthand the transformative power of sustainable development. My journey from a humble background to becoming an educational leader is a testament to the impact of sustainable initiatives on individuals and communities.

I was born on May 2, 1991, in Barangay Pedada, Ajuy, Iloilo. My early education took place at Luca Elementary School, where I graduated in 2003. I continued my studies at Luca National High School, finishing in 2007 as a Class Salutatorian. Driven by a passion for education, I pursued a Bachelor of Elementary Education at Northern Iloilo State University-Barotac Viejo, graduating in 2013.

My commitment to professional growth led me to earn a Master of Arts in Educational Management from the Iloilo State University of Fisheries, Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, in 2022. Currently, I am pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management.

My teaching career began at Beatriz D. Tupas Memorial Elementary School on September 1, 2014. This opportunity allowed me to give back to the community that had supported me in acquiring my fundamental skills. It was also this year when I started engaging in the different 4Ps school-based activities.

On December 2, 2022, I was transferred to Progreso Elementary School, where I now serve as the Head Teacher III. In addition to my responsibilities at the school, I hold the position of District Coordinator for the Learning Resource Management and Development System (LRMDS), Planning and Monitoring, Evaluation, and Adjustment for the District of Ajuy II.

Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my dedication to teaching and leadership as one way of giving back the help to our government. In 2023, I was honored as the Most Outstanding Elementary Teacher in the Ajuy Pasidungog and District Patubas awards.

I have been balancing my life between my professional responsibilities, as a father, a husband, and a 4Ps advocate. When I got married, I also chose to reside in my birthplace together with my wife and four children. With all my roles, I remain deeply committed to my family and community.

SUSTAINABILITY

Going back to the 4Ps, my journey from a 4Ps beneficiary to an educational leader underscores the importance of sustainable development programs in empowering individuals and fostering community growth.

Influence as a partner-implementer of the 4Ps and as an educational leader, I have taken an active role in implementing the 4Ps program within my school and community. By collaborating with the DSWD and other stakeholders, I have helped ensure that the benefits of the 4Ps reach those who need them most. This partnership between DSWD and DepEd enabled us to provide additional support to students from low-income families, ensuring they have access to quality education and essential resources. These supports are enhanced through workshops, community outreach, and continuous engagement, we have fostered a culture of sustainability and empowerment, helping families break the cycle of poverty and achieve long-term success. I suggest that these initiatives and partnerships with the program implementers, and stakeholders should be sustained by the Department.

My story illustrates how sustainable initiatives like the 4Ps program can create lasting positive impacts on individuals and communities. During school orientations, I always advised 4Ps parents as well as those program-monitored children to invest in education and professional development because if they are empowered, we can build a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

The Lachica’s family graduated from the program in 2016 due to Level 3 or self-sufficiency. (Ajuy MOO, Iloilo POO)

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