In line with the continuous efforts to strengthen program implementation, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office XI, through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), conducted an unannounced spot-checking and Kumustahan activity in some Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDAs) of Sta. Maria, Davao Occidental on April 22, 2025.

A total of 82 partner-beneficiary households from Sitio Bangkalan, Sitio Migsulang of Barangay Datu Intan, and Barangay Pongpong were visited by the 4Ps staff of the Municipal Operations Office thru house-to-house initiative. This initiative reinforces the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the 4Ps Law or Republic Act 11310. The law, which institutionalizes 4Ps as a national poverty reduction strategy, mandates strict compliance with program conditions, including the responsible handling of cash grants.

The primary purpose of the spotchecking was to verify the actual usage of cash cards distributed under the 4Ps program and to educate beneficiaries about the risks and consequences of pawning their cards. This effort aims to safeguard the welfare of families and protect them from exploitation by unscrupulous individuals preying on vulnerable sectors.

Majority of the beneficiaries were able to present their cash cards during the spot checking. To remind the beneficiaries, the team provided counseling and reminders about the legal implications of pawning and the importance of using the cash grants for the health, education, and well-being of their family. The team also issued formal warning letters to identified households who pawned their cash cards.

This proactive approach also aligns with the national government’s drive for Ease of Doing Business (EODB) by fostering a transparent, accessible, and accountable social welfare system. Through initiatives like these, DSWD ensures that all transactions involving the 4Ps program are conducted efficiently and responsibly, safeguarding both the beneficiaries and public resources.

#BawatBuhayMahalagaSaDSWD #DSWDsaOnse #EODBMonth2025 #FromRedTapeToRedCarpet #BetterBusinessMovement #R2CBBMBP