President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has approved the proposal of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to expand the coverage of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) to include pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Pregnant, breastfeeding mothers to receive cash grants through 4Ps soon
In a news release by the Presidential Communication Office (PCO) last June 11, President Marcos met with the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Department of Health, DSWD and other concerned agencies to present recommendations on reforming the 4Ps cash grants at the Malacañan Palace.
President Marcos stated that it is important to bring mothers and their families into the system, especially during the first 1,000 days of life or before the child turns two years old. By providing conditional cash grants to pregnant and breastfeeding women based on set program conditions, the department hopes to address malnutrition concerns, such as stunting in children.
On June 12, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said that President Marcos gave them instructions on how they can improve the situation of pregnant and lactating mothers, after the department's proposal in February.
“This will serve as an incentive for them to have this what we call health-seeking behavior which means they will be motivated to go to the health center, register, avail of pre- and postnatal care, and post-partum treatment, including immunization for their 0- to 2-year old children,” Gatchalian said.
Why is the first 1,000 days important
Studies have shown that the first 1,000 days of a child's life are critical for their development, with proper nutrition and care for both mother and child being essential during this period. Experts say that this is the period where children's bodies, brains, and immune system develop, laying the groundwork for their holistic health and development.
During this period, parents are expected to get the recommended vaccinations for their children, and practice exclusive breastfeeding or Tamang KAIN (Kid and Infant Nutrition). Read more about it here.
What is the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program?
The 4Ps was launched in 2008 and institutionalized in 2019 by Republic Act No. 11310 or the 4Ps Act. It is the national poverty reduction strategy and human capital investment program that provides conditional cash transfer to poor households for a maximum period of seven (7) years, to improve health, nutrition and education.
Currently, identified beneficiaries of the 4Ps receive cash grants as long as their children attend school and visit health clinics on a monthly basis. Households with school-aged children receive cash grants ranging from Php 300 to 700 per child per month for 10 months, depending on their year level.
As for the conditional cash grants for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, the amount is yet to be finalized by DSWD and NEDA.
What do you think about this program? Share your thoughts at the Smart Parenting Village here.
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