In February 2024, the pilot implementation of the 4Ps digital financial literacy initiative garnered positive feedback across six regions. Encouraged by this success, Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian gave the green light for the nationwide rollout beginning in May 2024.
Dubbed “e-Panalo ang Kinabukasan,” the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program National Program Management Office (4Ps-NPMO), in collaboration with DSWD Field Office XI and DSWD Field Office MIMAROPA, recently kicked off the rollout, bringing financial literacy and digital inclusion to 4Ps beneficiaries residing in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). This initiative, launched on May 27th in Paquibato, Davao City and May 30th in Brooke’s Point, Palawan, marks a significant shift towards empowering 4Ps beneficiaries with the tools to manage their finances digitally.
According to NPMO data, there are a total of 109,849 beneficiaries living in GIDA in Region XI and 80,464 beneficiaries in GIDA in MIMAROPA. This significant number of beneficiaries influenced the decision to launch e-Panalo in Davao and Palawan, ensuring widespread access to the initiative.
The caravan launch saw a substantial turnout and enthusiastic participation of 4Ps beneficiaries. During the events, various partner-stakeholders engaged with attendees, discussing essential topics related to digital literacy. Notable DSWD officials present at the launches included NHTS and 4Ps Assistant Secretary Marites Maristela, 4Ps National Program Manager Director Gemma Gabuya, 4Ps NPMO OIC-DPM for Operations Rosalie Dagulo, DSWD-FMS Supervising Administrative Officer Shiela Marie Vista, FMS Chief Administrative Officer Mary Antoinette Duero, as well as 4Ps Family Development Division Chief Maricel Grace Gomez and Project Development Officer IV Arvin Longcop. Also in attendance were 4Ps Regional Program Coordinators Margie Cabido for DSWD FO XI and Reji A. Pancho for DSWD FO MIMAROPA.
The launch was further bolstered by representatives and teams from Landbank of the Philippines, BPI Foundation, and Ayala Foundation, alongside delegates from leading mobile banking and e-wallet applications, Gcash and Maya.
Since its inception in 2019, the 4Ps program has progressively transitioned from traditional cash cards and direct payouts to fully functional transaction accounts. This shift aligns with the national government’s financial inclusion strategy, ensuring that even the most disadvantaged citizens are integrated into the financial system.
The “e-Panalo ang Kinabukasan” aims to educate, inform, and encourage beneficiaries to utilize digital applications for managing their finances. This endeavor seeks to eliminate the practice of cash card pawning and reduce the expenses incurred by beneficiaries in GIDA regions when accessing their cash grants.
In conclusion, the launch demonstrates 4Ps’ dedication to long-term improvements for beneficiaries. This transition not only simplifies the receipt of grants but also opens up a wealth of financial opportunities for 4Ps beneficiaries, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic growth even after they graduate from the program.
