Two life-changing community projects were officially turned over to 4Ps beneficiaries in Barangay Towak, Matanao, Davao del Sur—marking a significant milestone in community empowerment and sustainable development. These initiatives, funded through the Enhanced Support Services Intervention (ESSI) under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), aim to uplift vulnerable families by addressing long-standing basic needs and strengthening cultural identity.
Water for Life: Clean Water Now Flows in Sitio Bernesan
The “Kanwah (Balon): Patubig sa Sitio Bernesan Phase 1” project now delivers a steady and reliable supply of clean water to the residents of Sitio Bernesan. “Kanwah,” a B’laan word meaning “source of water,” aptly reflects the project’s mission.
Funded with ₱375,000.00 under the Small-Scale Community Project modality, the water system addresses the community’s long-standing issue of water scarcity. It is especially vital for the 56 persons with disabilities, 220 senior citizens, and 784 minors—including 85 school children at Glot Towak Elementary School—who will directly benefit from improved sanitation, better health, and increased agricultural productivity.
“Ang Kanwah magahatag og padayon nga suplay sa limpyo nga tubig sa atong komunidad. Kini ang tubag sa kakulangon sa suplay sa tubig, sanitasyon, og magahatag ug maayong panglawas sa mga kabatan-onan.” (Kanwah will provide a steady supply of clean water in our community. It addresses water shortages, sanitation issues, and supports better health for our children.)
Crafting Culture: Weaving a Future for the B’laan Community
The second project, “Crafting Culture: B’laan Tabih Weaving and Beaded Accessories”, empowers indigenous women through the Kanfulong B’laan Livelihood Association (KABLIA). With ₱180,000.00 in funding under the Eco-Cultural Livelihood Assistance Income Generating Project (EPAIGP), the initiative revitalizes traditional B’laan crafts—Tabih weaving and beadwork—while creating sustainable sources of income.
Through training and support from agencies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), the women of KABLIA are now producing high-quality, culturally significant crafts that are gaining both local and international exposure. This not only preserves their cultural heritage but also provides a reliable source of income for Indigenous Peoples (IP) families.
“Kani nga proyekto dako nga tabang sa atong mga kaigsuonan nga B’laan, labi na sa mga IP nga babaye. Kini usa ka gasa sa pagpalambo sa kultura og sa ilang panginabuhian. Hinaot nga mailhan pa ang atong lumad nga produkto sa tibuok kalibutan.”
(This project is a huge help for our B’laan brothers and sisters, especially the IP women. It is a gift that strengthens both culture and livelihood. We hope our indigenous products will be recognized worldwide.)
Sustaining Progress Through Empowerment
These two ESSI initiatives are more than just projects—they represent a shift in ownership, participation, and dignity for 4Ps beneficiaries. The turnover signifies a handover of responsibility, reinforcing that these communities are not just recipients, but active agents of change.
By addressing both practical and cultural needs, the 4Ps program continues to fulfill its mission: to uplift families from poverty through not only immediate assistance but also long-term, self-sustaining development.
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