Another unassailable proof of the greater impact of the structured Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) compared with aid programs is the increasing number of beneficiaries who have graduated from school.

Beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s 4Ps showed that poverty is not a hindrance to success, as two former monitored children ranked among the topnotchers of the September and November 2025 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

“The Department extends its congratulations to former 4Ps-monitored children Chariz Ann Rillamas Lucero and Clyde Zeph Payusan for once again demonstrating that effective government interventions, combined with hard work and dedication, can help achieve our mission of breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty,” Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao, the DSWD’s spokesperson, said on Friday (26 December).

Former 4Ps monitored child Chariz Ann from San Vicente, Ilocos Sur landed in the 7th spot in the LET-Secondary Level.

“It truly feels like a dream. I never imagined that I would be included in the list of topnotchers. I am incredibly blessed, because this is a huge opportunity to change the life of our family,” Chariz Ann said.

Clyde Zeph, from Dalaguete, Cebu, ranked 9th in the LET-Elementary Level.

In his testimonial posted on the DSWD’s FO 7-Central Visayas Facebook page, Clyde Zeph expressed his gratitude to the 4Ps for supporting his academic journey.

Catalyst of excellence

“The 4Ps goes beyond financial aid; it genuinely helps lessen the educational and economic struggles of families like ours. Rather than allowing these hardships to hold me back, they became the driving force that strengthened my determination, fueled my discipline, and inspired me to excel — leading me to become a topnotcher,” according to Zeph.

He added, “This success is a shared victory. It is the result of my parents’ unending sacrifices, the guidance and assistance of 4Ps, and the belief that with perseverance and the right support, even the most difficult circumstances can lead to remarkable achievements.”

Dumlao said the achievements of the former 4Ps monitored children highlight the Marcos administration’s goal of continuing to improve the lives of poor and marginalized families, primarily through health and education.

“The remarkable accomplishments of our new LET passers serve as proof of the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and human capital development. Rest assured that the DSWD will continue to enhance the program and invest in the potential of every 4Ps monitored child,” the DSWD spokesperson said.

The 4Ps was launched in 2008 and institutionalized in 2019 through Republic Act 11310 or the 4Ps Act. The program provides conditional cash grants to more than 4 million household beneficiaries, with their children receiving subsidies to complete elementary and senior high school, and receiving health and nutrition grants.