CARMEN, Agusan del Norte — In a momentous event celebrating achievement and self-sufficiency, 366 households in Carmen graduated from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) last November 8, 2024. The Katumanan 2024 Graduation and Exit Ceremony was held at the Rama Gymnasium in Población Carmen, marking a significant milestone for families who have achieved a Self-Sufficient Level of Well-being and are now exiting the government program.
Crislea Celeste, the 4Ps Regional Program Coordinator from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office Caraga, congratulated the graduates on their achievements. Celeste assured attendees that the DSWD and its partners remain committed to supporting their progress by continuing to provide essential social services and development programs. To ensure the sustainability of their self-sufficiency, Celeste highlighted the ongoing provision of Family Development Sessions (FDS), which have been instrumental in empowering families with financial, social, and emotional support.
Vice Mayor Jovitte Cabrera Calo represented Mayor Ramon Mendezona Calo at the ceremony, along with Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer Cielo Chenille Garate, who joined the event to show support for the graduates. The annual “Katumanan” ceremony, which derives its name from the Bisaya word meaning “fulfillment” or “realization,” celebrates the attainment of self-sufficiency among 4Ps beneficiaries as assessed by the Social Welfare and Development Indicator (SWDI).
The 4Ps program, which has been pivotal in assisting low-income households through conditional cash grants and support services, has helped uplift the lives of many Filipino families. Through the collective efforts of the government and community partners, the 4Ps graduates are now better equipped to continue their journey towards a stable and prosperous future.
