Ronagin Caas, from Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte and a Social Welfare Assistant (SWA) in DSWD XI, is a living testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of government programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps). Her story is not just her own but also a beacon of hope for countless families striving to rise above poverty.

Ronagin’s life took a tragic turn in 2008 when her mother passed away, leaving her father as a solo parent to four children. At that time, her youngest sibling was only nine years old. Her father, a banana harvester in Talaingod, Davao del Norte, worked tirelessly to provide for them. When work was scarce, he turned to driving a single motorbike—a precious asset purchased with the insurance money from their mother’s passing—to earn extra income.

As the eldest, Ronagin bore the weight of responsibility early on. She would sometimes drive the motorbike herself to help make ends meet. Despite their best efforts, life was hard. Their home had a roof made of cogon grass, and school supplies were scarce, often repurposing old notebook pages sewn together to create new ones.

In 2013, their family’s circumstances changed when they became part of the 4Ps program. The financial assistance they received eased the burden of school expenses for her siblings, allowing them to focus on their education.

Fueled by a deep desire to uplift her family, Ronagin pursued a degree in Business Administration, majoring in Financial Management. Through sheer determination and the support of 4Ps, she graduated and soon found work at the local government unit (LGU). This opportunity paved the way for her to join DSWD in 2018 as a Social Welfare Assistant.

Her employment marked a new chapter for her family. She renovated their home with her earnings, transforming it into a decent and comfortable dwelling. More importantly, she supported her siblings’ education—one is now in college, and another is in senior high school.

Her father also benefited from livelihood training provided through the program, learning how to make longganisa and ointments. Together, they built a more stable future for their family.

Now in her ninth year as an SWA, Ronagin finds joy and fulfillment in serving 4Ps beneficiaries. Her own experiences of hardship resonate deeply with the families she helps, making her an empathetic and inspiring figure in their lives.

During Family Development Sessions, she shares her story—a narrative of perseverance and hope—to motivate others to pursue their dreams despite life’s challenges. “Whenever I see the children we serve, I’m reminded of the endless opportunities that government support can provide,” she said.

Ronagin’s aspirations remain grounded in service. She dreams of continuing her work to support her family and to contribute to the success of 4Ps. “Our family’s story is proof that the program works,” she shared. “It’s not just about financial aid; it’s about giving families the tools and hope to dream bigger.”

Through her work, she aims to inspire more beneficiaries to believe in themselves and their capacity to overcome adversity. She envisions a future where more children achieve their dreams through the program’s support.

Ronagin Caas’s journey from a struggling 4Ps beneficiary to a dedicated SWA is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of government programs. It’s a story of resilience, proving that with determination and support, even the most challenging circumstances can lead to a life of purpose and service.

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