Re-evaluating anti-poverty strategy
CHEERS TO GMA News for its special report reviewing the poverty reduction and social development strategy of the government called “Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps”. (24 Oras, Jan. 10; State of the Nation with Jessica Soho, Jan. 11 and Feb. 2)
The report recalled the forms of assistance provided under the program as well as the conditions needed to be eligible beneficiaries. It gave face to the 4Ps by checking on the situation of participating barangays (villages) in Samar and Leyte. It was able to track the weaknesses of 4Ps, particularly beneficiaries’ finding it difficult to remain in the program and the capacity of the government to sustain it.
The report cited the lack of schools and health centers in the poorest barangays, which have the biggest number of possible cash grant beneficiaries.
Without these facilities, the beneficiaries cannot comply with conditions like their children’s attending classes and having regular check-ups.
The report revealed that 1,700 barangays in 18 provinces, where half of the people are considered poor, are not included in the 4Ps.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is receiving complaints that other poor households are excluded from the program.
The report included interviews with academics and civil society organizations which criticized the program for hindering the transition of 4Ps beneficiaries into self-reliant citizens and for adding to the debt service burden of the country.
DSWD Sec. Dinky Soliman said in her interview that the government is addressing these grievances and assuring a transition strategy for beneficiaries through sustainable livelihood and community-driven development.
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