MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in partnership with Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has expanded efforts to boost digital financial literacy among poor families by distributing mobile phones to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Pinabacdao over the weekend.

During the “e-Panalo ang Kinabukasan” regional rollout, more than 100 4Ps households received mobile phones, donated by Globe Telecom, to help them access digital financial services.

“These are underserved areas with no bank branches. We are doing everything to ensure they can receive their cash benefits,” President Marcos said.

In a statement, Irene Dumlao explained that the initiative allows beneficiaries to receive their monthly grants through electronic wallets, supporting their inclusion in the country’s digital financial system.

She emphasized that the program aligns with the government’s goal to help 4Ps families achieve self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life.

“The government continues to prioritize ensuring that every Filipino family has access to services that uplift their lives, including learning how to use digital financial apps to maximize their cash grants,” Dumlao said.

Before receiving their devices, beneficiaries attended digital financial literacy sessions, covering:

• Safe use of online financial platforms
• Identifying scams and digital threats
• Basic savings and investment practices

The sessions were conducted with partners such as the Bank of the Philippine Islands Foundation, Ayala Foundation, G-Xchange, Inc., and Globe Telecom.

Launched in 2008 and institutionalized through Republic Act No. 11310, the 4Ps program supports over 4 million low-income households, helping children complete their education while improving health and nutrition outcomes.

On Sunday, President Marcos and Rex Gatchalian also led a food redemption activity under the Walang Gutom Program in Samar.

A total of 129 beneficiaries in Pinabacdao accessed nutritious and affordable food items using their monthly food credits.

Under the program, households receive PHP3,000 monthly food credits through electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, helping them supplement their food supply and ease daily expenses.

“The President directed us to ensure that no Filipino family goes hungry so they can become part of a productive workforce,” Gatchalian said.

Beyond food assistance, beneficiaries also participate in Kalusugan, Kakayahan, at Kabuhayan (3K) Sessions, which provide:

• Nutrition education
• Skills training and livelihood opportunities

The DSWD has partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and the Department of Labor and Employment to offer skills training, short courses, and job opportunities.

Currently, around 600,000 households benefit from the program, with a target of 750,000 food-poor families by 2028.

The Walang Gutom Program remains a key anti-hunger initiative of the Marcos administration, aimed at reducing food insecurity and supporting long-term economic stability for vulnerable Filipino families.

NPO News Team | PNA Philippine News Agency - PR