Hardworking Student Turns Dreams into Reality with Help from 4Ps
Testimony of April Joy V. Juayong
Former 4Ps Child Beneficiary
HAMTIC, Antique – The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) didn’t just provide financial assistance, it became a beacon of hope, a source of opportunity, and a pathway to a brighter future.
My name is April Joy Vicente Juayong, from Barangay Calacja 1 of this town. I was once a monitored 4Ps child beneficiary and am now proudly employed at a private company in Iloilo. Our family became part of the 4Ps when I was in Grade VI at Villavert Memorial Elementary School.
Tragically, my mother passed away due to health complications, an experience that deeply shaped my childhood. Without the financial means to afford her medical needs, we faced one of the harshest realities of poverty. Losing her at such a young age meant stepping into responsibilities far beyond my years such as waking up early, preparing meals, and doing laundry became part of my daily routine.
By the time I reached high school, the cash assistance from 4Ps helped but wasn’t always enough to support our needs. I found myself struggling with my studies and nearly gave up, but my father’s tireless work inspired me to push forward. I became a working student, determined to finish my education. That determination bore fruit and I consistently received academic recognition, earning “With Honors” in Grades 10 and 12, and a Conduct Award in Grade 11.
I graduated from senior high school in 2020 at Moscoso Rios National High School during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and continued my journey by enrolling at the University of Antique-Hamtic Campus, taking up a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Major in Animal Science. Starting college with no personal gadgets for online learning was tough, but I was blessed when my nephew lent me his tablet, allowing me to keep up with my classes.
My perseverance paid off. I won 1st place in the Pasture Identification Contest during our CAFFS Week in my 4th year. I was also fortunate to receive a scholarship from the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) through the Coconut Farmers and their Families (CoScho) program, which enabled me to focus on my studies and work towards my dreams.
After graduating on July 12, 2024, I enrolled in a licensure review class funded by the PCA CoScho. On November 22, 2024, I passed the Licensure Examination for Agriculturists (LEA), a moment I once thought was beyond reach.
Today, I am proud to be working as an Audit Associate with MCR Agriventure Corporation in Iloilo. I am currently under probationary employment, but I am hopeful to become a regular employee soon.
As I’ve said, 4Ps gave me more than just financial support—it gave me hope, opened doors, and illuminated a path to a better future. I stand today as living proof that with support and determination, dreams can come true.(Prepared by Municipal Link Ma. Annase Cleath D. Consing, Hamtic MOO, Antique POO)
#BawatBuhayMahalagaSaDSWD