New cash grant vs stunting, malnutrition launched

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has launched a new cash grant under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) aimed at ensuring children are free from stunting and malnutrition, empowering them to reach their full potential and become productive members of society.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian highlighted this initiative during the official launch of the First 1,000 Days (F1KD) of Life cash grant, which was attended by over 50 pregnant women and children aged 0-2 years from select areas in Quezon City, San Jose Del Monte City in Bulacan, and San Mateo and Rodriguez towns in Rizal province.

In his pre-recorded message aired at the event, Secretary Gatchalian said, “Through this additional support, we aim to ensure that every child in a 4Ps household has the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential. The DSWD believes that investing in the future of our youth is investing in the future of our nation.”

The F1KD program, now officially launched, is designed to assist 4Ps households with pregnant women or children aged 0-2 years, ensuring they access necessary health services and address the nutritional needs of children during their first 1,000 days of life. The initiative will benefit over 68,000 individuals from 4Ps households nationwide.

“Starting this year, the F1KD will provide additional cash grants to qualified 4Ps households, while ensuring they have access to essential health and nutrition services,” Secretary Gatchalian stated.

In addition to the health grants already provided to 4Ps households, pregnant and lactating mothers will receive P350 to help cover healthcare expenses from conception until the child turns two.

Secretary Gatchalian emphasized that the F1KD, like all other 4Ps grants, is conditional, urging beneficiaries to use the funds in the best interest of their children. Conditions include accessing prenatal care at DoH-accredited facilities, tracking pregnancy, attending post-natal visits, participating in counseling, and ensuring children receive micronutrient supplements and immunizations.

“I know our 4Ps beneficiaries will join us in valuing the health of children, starting from pregnancy through their first 1,000 days of growth,” the DSWD chief said.

He also expressed gratitude to both government and private sector partners for their support in developing and implementing the program, from its inception to ensuring adequate resources.

“I thank all our partners who continue to help us achieve this goal,” Secretary Gatchalian added.

Officials from the Department of Health (DoH), led by Undersecretary Gloria Balboa, were also present at the launch. DoH set up mobile clinics to provide essential healthcare services to the 4Ps beneficiaries.

Other partners in attendance included the National Nutrition Council, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Science and Technology, Department of Agriculture, National Economic Development Authority, Commission on Higher Education, National Anti-Poverty Commission, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, Philippine Commission on Women, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, Commission on Population and Development, World Bank, UNICEF and the Australian Embassy.