President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has given the green light to expand the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to include pregnant and lactating mothers. This move aims to ensure the health and well-being of children during their crucial first 1,000 days of life.
During a meeting held at Malacañang Palace with key officials from the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), the Department of Health (DOH), and other concerned agencies, the proposal for the expanded coverage was discussed and subsequently approved.
Marcos expressed strong support for the initiative, stating, “On the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, bring the mother, the family into the system. That’s really good.”
The President has directed the DSWD and NEDA to finalize the details and present the necessary adjustments to facilitate the distribution of cash grants. The DSWD had initially proposed these reforms in February, aiming to increase the 4Ps grant amounts and include support for the First 1,000 Days (F1KD) of children.
The adjustments are designed to boost the purchasing power of 4Ps beneficiaries and encourage better compliance with program conditions, ultimately helping to prevent malnutrition and stunting among children.
