433 Surigao Norte families graduate from 4Ps
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte (PIA) — A total of 433 families from various municipalities in Surigao del Norte as partner-beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) took part in the Katumanan 2025 Graduation cum Exit Ceremonies.
These households graduated from the program after achieving the Well-being status of Self-Sufficiency in their living conditions based on the Social Welfare and Development Indicator (SWDI) assessment. Out of the 433 families who graduated, 134 households were from the municipalities of Mainit, 99 households were from Pilar, 127 households were from Placer, and 73 households were from Socorro.
The Katumanan 2025 Graduation, held in the last week of November, featured the sharing of success stories, expressions of support from the local government units, and the reaffirmation of hope for the future among graduates of the program. Local chief executives, municipal social welfare and development officers, Sangguniang Bayan members, and proud 4Ps graduates were among those in attendance.
In his message, Mainit Mayor Ramon Mondano commended the beneficiaries for reaching self-sufficiency, noting that many families now have college graduates who are employed in their chosen fields. “Today, we celebrate everyone’s success in reaching self-sufficiency. As Mainitnons, we are proud of your achievements.”
Mayor Mondano also announced that the LGU of Mainit will extend scholarship support to current college students who exited from the 4Ps households.
Tatay Calixtro, one of the beneficiaries, said, “The opportunity to be a part of the 4Ps and to complete the Katumanan Program are life-changing experiences for me and my family. This is not merely financial assistance; it has become a foundation for them to gain courage, knowledge, and the capacity to slowly lift themselves out of poverty.”
”Let us remember that the education and the lessons we have received are the most important legacy we can give to our children. Let us not stop reaching for our dreams,” he added. “Thank you very much to DSWD, LGU officials, social workers, and to everyone supporting this program. You have been our bridge to a better future. The Katuparan Program is not just a promise of hope; it has become the fulfillment of our dreams.”
The “Katumanan,” a Cebuano word meaning fulfilment or realisation, is conducted annually and celebrates the victory of 4Ps families in their effort to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from DSWD Caraga)
