For Arlene Amoren, asking other people for help was not easy. She is the type of person who works day and night to provide for her needs as well as for her family, without having to burden others.

But when she received the news that her mother-in-law was lying critically-ill in a hospital in Southern Leyte, for the first time in her life, she knocked on the doors of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for a plea for help.

“Lumapit po ako dito dahil po yung nanay [mother-in-law] ko, kritikal na po sa ospital. Dahil hindi po namin kaya ‘yung transpo naming mag-asawa kaya nanghihingi po kami ng tulong para makauwi kami habang buhay pa po ang biyenan ko. Para makausap ko siya habang buhay pa po siya kasi hinahanap kami palagi sa kanya [sister-in-law],” a tearful Arlene shared in an interview with AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations) Chronicles, the newest online documentary of the DSWD’s Strategic Communication group.

As narrated by Arlene, her mother-in-law, Servillana, had suffered a severe stroke and was no longer able to speak during the past several weeks.

“Tinawagan kami ng kapatid ng asawa ko, sabi nasa ospital siya, hindi na makapagsalita, tabingi na ang mukha, nasa ospital sa Dongon, Maasin, Southern Leyte,” Arlene told AICS Chronicles.

Lacking sufficient money for boat fare, Arlene was agonizing on each passing day without any good news on her mother-in-law’s improvement. She also feared they may not make it in time should they fail to book a trip back home in the soonest time possible.

Relentless, Arlene ultimately took the chance to seek help from the DSWD’s AICS.

The AICS is one of the social protection services of the DSWD that provides medical, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance to individuals who are in crisis.

After submitting the needed requirements and undergoing the usual assessment, Arlene was able to secure transportation assistance under AICS.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako sa tulong ng DSWD. Hindi po talaga ako lalapit kung walang mabigat na dahilan. Kahit pamasahe lang po, okay na po basta makauwi kami. Para makausap pa po namin siya, kahit pandinig lang po,” said Arlene who was very much delighted to receive the aid.

Though Servillana was her mother-in-law, Arlene had long regarded her as a true mother. Servillana even once lived with them when she was still strong and has only returned recently so she can enjoy a peaceful and familiar environment in a place close to her heart.

This is the reason why for Arlene, the assistance she received from AICS meant more than a boat ticket. It was a chance for closure, for love, and for honoring her mother-in-law who treated her like a real daughter.

“First time ko po talaga na lumapit. Hindi ako lalapit ma’am kung walang problema, kung kaya lang namin. Maraming maraming salamat po sa DSWD, malaking tulong po ito sa amin para makauwi na kami sa aming probinsya para makita ang aking biyenan,” Arlene said with her eyes welling with tears.

Arlene is beyond grateful that the help did not come at a moment too late and she was met with a compassionate and timely response from a government that truly listens and helps those in need.

The AICS Chronicles is a new online program of the DSWD hosted by Media Relations Officer Mel Cabigting of the Digital Media Service (DMS).

The program, which airs every other Monday via the DSWD Facebook page, features real-life stories of individuals and families who were able to overcome financial challenges through the help of the agency’s AICS. (LSJ)

In February 2024, social workers of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Central Office went to Capas, Tarlac to listen to the Aetas from Barangays Maruglu and Sta. Juliana express their needs which could help them improve their lives.

Three months later in May, the social workers from the DSWD’s Pag-abot Program returned to the Aetas’ municipality with no less than Secretary Rex Gatchalian joining the team.

Secretary Gatchalian and his social workers made true their promise to the Aetas of Capas. They came with 50 carabaos in tow, the beast of burden which the Aetas have requested during the February dialogue.

The DSWD chief personally turned over the carabaos to the 50 families of the Tarlac Aeta community to help them in their farming activities.

“Ang utos ng ating Pangulong BongBong Marcos ay siguraduhin na ang serbisyo ng DSWD ay para sa lahat. Wala dapat naiiwanan at narinig ho namin nung nagpunta kami dito yung request nyo para sa mga kalabaw kaya nga inayos ng Departamento namin na makabili para sa inyo ng mga kalabaw. 50 yan na mga kalabaw, so magagamit na ho natin yan, isa lang ito sa maraming marami pang programa na ilulunsad ng DSWD para masigurado na yung kapakanan ng ating mga kababayan lalong lalo na yung katutubo nating kababayan ay napapangalagaan,” Secretary Gatchalian told the Aetas during the turnover of the carabaos to the beneficiaries in May 2024.

Now a year later, the DSWD’s #Kwento ng Pag-asa at Pagbabago (#KPAP) team visited the two Aeta communities to check on the current state of their livelihood.

It took hours for the #KPAP team to reach Barangays Maruglu and Sta. Juliana as they crossed rivers numerous times and interspersed with hours of trekking upland. The terrain was difficult to traverse. Sometimes there were roads and sometimes there were just pathways.

For the #KPAP team, the journey was for a much-needed shoot. But for the Aetas, it was a glimpse of their everyday life. A life that pushed them before to periodically leave their village and seek livelihood elsewhere.

Some travelled to Manila to take their chances. Some went down to Tarlac’s town proper to find opportunities. And when they have earned enough, they go back to their homes. They did not mind the dangers as providing for the basic needs of their families was their priority.

It may sound cliché, but this was their reality. Until Pag-abot made the step to reach out “para abutin sila” at their home base.

One of the beneficiaries, Totoy Fajardo, narrated the situation of the Aetas in the sitio as he started describing their daily struggles.

“Mahirap-hirap yung buhay po dito kasi tignan niyo yung daan namin, ilog po yan, eh kung walang sasakyan na maka-akyat wala kaming pagkain. Kumain nalang po ng kamoteng kahoy, kamoteng gagapang at tsaka saging pong nilaga,” Totoy shared with #KPAP.

For Totoy, it was a great relief when his family received assistance from the DSWD through the Pag-abot.

“Maganda naman po na naibigay ang kalabaw kasi malaki pong tulong…Talagang pasalamat po sa Presidente, sa mayor po, sa barangay,” he said.

A member of the Aeta Indigenous Group (IP), and now working as a social worker (SW) at the DSWD Field Office 3- Central Luzon, Enrique Saplala said the outreach was important to keep his fellow IPs out of harm’s way and return them to their upland homes.

SW Saplala said it was necessary to make a keen assessment of the IPs expressed needs, as well as their situation, so that the right intervention can be provided. To date, 90 Aeta beneficiaries have already been given assistance.

“Based po sa data naming ay umabot na sila ng 90 yung nabigyan ng mga kalabaw tapos eto po yung magagamit nila para sa paglilinis, pagtatanim. Bilang isang social worker tinitignan din namin yung expressed need pero tinitignan din namin base sa aming assessment kung sustainable yung ibibigay namin na tulong sa kanila para matiyak namin na magagamit nila ng tama ang tulong ng government,” SW Saplala explained.

Like Totoy, Naru Capuan also received a carabao and Php10,000 as financial assistance from Secretary Gatchalian in May 2024.

According to Naru, he used to travel to Manila to beg alms as food is scarce in the mountains of Capas. The little he earned in Manila was what he used to start a small livelihood when he got back. But all that changed with the Pag-abot Program.

“Lumuwas po kami sa Maynila kasi wala kaming makakain sa bundok. Yung naipon sa Manila, yung kaunting pera gagamitin namin dun sa carabao. Malaking pasalamat po namin sa Pag-abot dahil malaki pong tulong nila sa amin sa mga katutubo, binigay nyo po yung mga kailangan namin. Di na po kami babalik sa Manila,” Naru narrated to the DSWD #KPAP team.

Although used to living a simple life in the mountains, Naru dreams of a better life and is aware that one has to work hard to achieve that dream. He believes that the key to fighting the never-ending battle with poverty is through education.

“Gusto naming matuto yung mga bata na mag-aral para yung buhay namin hindi na po kami maghihirap. Pangarap ko yung magpaaral ng anak. Yung buhay mo parang hindi umaangat kung wala kang napag-aral,” Naru pointed out.

Imyak Gonzales also shared the difficulties living in the mountain. With lush surroundings, one would think that food comes easy.

Imyak said that despite the dangers, going to Manila proved a viable choice before as it was difficult to find sufficient food in the mountains. He was one of those who periodically went to Manila, staying “duon lang sa tabi ng tulay.”

One year later, Imyak happily shared how the DSWD-provided carabao has changed his life.

“Maganda na ngayon dahil may panghila ng kami ng kahoy at gamit sa pagtatanim. Eto po yung kalabaw para sa amin maganda ang naitulong dahil ito na po yung makakatulong sa aming hirap dito sa malapit sa Mt. Pinatubo,” Imyak said.

To some, the carabao is just a tool for farming. But to the Aeta beneficiaries, the carabaos are their partners in their daily toil to provide for their families.

For David Dela Cruz, the land which they till is located upland with three-hours of trekking. With the carabao, he has a strong companion going up and down to plant, making farming more manageable.

Like any true-blooded farmer, David treats the carabao as a member of his family that also needs to be taken care of.

In providing services to the Aetas, Capas Mayor Roseller Rodriquez said that the local government is focusing on addressing the literacy challenge among the IPs.

“Pinapalakas namin ngayon is yung education ng mga bata, mga katutubong bata. Nagtayo kami ng mga halfway houses, nagrenta kami ng mga bahay para yung mga katutubo namin na galing ng bundok meron silang matitirhan pag mag-aaral sila dito sa mga main barrios. Naglabas kami ng ordinansa na automatic na scholars ang mga katutubong college students at meron silang regular supply ng bigas at pagkain,” Mayor Rodriguez told #KPAP.

The carabao and financial assistance provided are just the initial support from the Pag-abot program.  

As stressed by Secretary Gatchalian in 2024 during the handover of the 50 carabaos, the DSWD is committed to addressing the needs of the marginalized communities, including the Capas Aeta community, in line with the President’s directive that no one should be left behind.

Launched in July 2023, Pag-abot aims to reach out and address the concerns of families and individuals living and staying on the streets and provide them with the right intervention and opportunities to steer them toward improved and dignified lives.

For the Aetas of Capas, the Pag-abot did not just hand them the right intervention in the form of the carabaos and financial assistance.  The program has gifted them with renewed hope, a dream for a better tomorrow, and a reason to smile for being included in the country’s development.

The #KPAP is the award-winning online documentary program of the DSWD aired every Tuesday over the agency’s social media accounts. It is hosted by Information Officer Bianca Piedad-Tamondong of the Digital Media Service (DMS) under the Strategic Communications group.# (GDVF)

The social work profession may be her second choice. But her work as a social worker is second to none.

This sums up the story of Irene Orine, a dedicated social worker of the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Central Office, who serves clients of the agency’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

Catering to hundreds of in-need Filipinos daily, one would never think that Irene initially veered away from social work as she initially resisted to follow the footsteps of her mom who used to work at the DSWD.

“Actually, second choice ko siya kasi yung mother ko nag work siya dito (DSWD) dati. So, parang dahil nagpupunta ako dito sa DSWD that time, nagkaroon ako ng idea dun sa profession at siya din mismo nag-encourage sa akin pero dahil may sariling decision college time, computer science talaga ang first choice but eventually po napunta ako sa social work,” Irene narrated to the Kwentong Angels in Red Vest (ARV), the online documentary of the DSWD’s Strategic Communications.

Passing the social work board exam soon after graduating in 1999, Irene was thankful that she had no trouble finding a job.

Before working in the DSWD, Irene spent two
years in an office at a local government unit (LGU), and 15 years as a social worker of the Asian Student Christian Foundation, a non-government organization (NGO).

Although social work was her second choice, Irene learned to love the work that gives her the opportunity to help others.

More than that, working in the NGO also led Irene to open her family’s home to one of the foundation’s foundling children, Angelina, whom she adopted.

Adopting Angelina is a testament of Irene’s big heart, which is also reflected in her own family.

Irene shared: “Isa lang po siya sa mga bata, kapag may occasions po, ina-allow namin ang mga bata na mag spend ng time sa family. Siya po ang laging naiiwan doon. Sa foundation po ang tawag nila sa akin ay mommy Ai so yung in-approach niya ako kung pwede siyang mag-spend ng vacations sa amin, ayun po nagtuloy tuloy na.”

Married to an overseas Filipino worker (OFW), Irene shared the hardships she experienced in raising her three children, being both the mother and the father to her kids.

Aside from playing dual roles, there were times Irene found it hard which to prioritize – the kids or her work. Admittedly, with the number of clients waiting to be served, the social work profession takes up too much of her time away from her family.

“Mahirap po talaga lalo sa pag-didisiplina, may pagkakataon katulad nung naging teenager na may mga bagay na hindi ko naiintindihan. At the same time dahil sa nature of work na marami yung times sa trabaho, so nahihirapan din ako lalo sa school occasions, na kailangan kong mamili kung saan ako pupunta, sa office po ba or sa mga
anak ko,” Irene narrated to the Kwentong ARV team.

Despite the hardships, Irene weathered the storms with the help of her mother, Veronica, who understood the demands of the work, having served in the DSWD.

With a twinkle in her eye, Irene continued: “Salamat na lang din kay Lord kasi yung nanay ko simula noong nag-asawa ako, sa amin na siya nag-stay so yung mga pagkakataon na nahihirapan ako nandyan naman siya para umagapay sa akin.”

Briefly after happily expressing her gratitude, the mood became somber as Irene told the Kwentong ARV of another pain she had to go through in performing her work as a social worker.

When her mother, Nanay Veronica, was hospitalized, Irene hardly had the time to care for her and this caused her much heartbreak.

With her voice breaking with emotion, Irene recounted: “Napakahirap, nung nasa hospital na siya, yung mga bata ang full time na nandun kasi nandito ako kailangan kong magwork.”

Having lost her beloved mother who practically helped her raise her kids, Irene said they are still in the process of healing.

And despite the pain which accompanied her story, Irene still managed to see something beautiful in the situation, an epitome of a true social worker – the bearer of positivity.

“Natutuwa lang ako sa mga bata kasi wala yung husband ko wala talaga ako mapagkunan ng lakas pero nandun sila para ipakita yung pagmamamhal sa lola nila at sa amin. Naiintindihan nila na sa kabila ng lahat, may kailangan din akong role na kailangang gampanan,” Irene said.

In addition, Irene finds comfort in the knowledge that her Nanay Veronica understood her predicament of choosing to serve the clients over personal issues, whenever needed.

After all, it was Nanay Veronica, a fellow DSWD worker, who taught and influenced her to love others sincerely and serve wholeheartedly.

Perhaps, it was fate that made Irene choose to study another course before committing to social work.

By not giving in to the prodding of her mom who used to work in the DSWD at that time, her eventual journey towards as a social worker became a personal and a committed choice. A
personal calling that is now more than a profession, but a way of life.

As she continues to fully embrace and love her ‘social worker’ role, Irene is able to treat her personal hardships as continuing lessons which make her best understand and serve the Filipinos in most need of her service.

With all humility, Irene said: “Eto din po talaga ang calling na ibinigay ni Lord. Ako din po ay higit na nagpapasalamat sa naging karanasan ko, kasi mas lumawak pa lalo ang pang unawa ko sa kung ano yung pinag-dadaanan ng kliyente natin.”

With such a positive perspective in life, Irene is, indeed, a certified angel donning the red vest of the DSWD, always ready to assist clients with extra love and extra care.

The Kwentong ARV is hosted by Director Lara Duran of the Traditional Media Service (TMS) airing every Monday over the DSWD Facebook page. (GDVF)

The sky is often the limit as to what parents can endure just to show their love for their children.

This has been the story of Revine Carl Malco and his wife Erica, who never gave up on their sickly son, in miracles and in the good of others — even at such a point they were told their bundle of joy may not make it to his first birthday.

As recalled by Revine, their son Reverie was just a month old ever since he has gone in and out of the hospital and was diagnosed with “Biliary Atresia,” a rare condition in which a baby’s bile ducts are blocked.

“Actually po, nung pinagbubuntis siya, okay naman lahat ng mga check-ups. Tapos nung lumabas po siya mga one month, napansin namin na naninilaw ‘yung ano niya, balat. Tapos ‘yung mata naninilaw din. So, pinatignan namin hanggang ma-confine kami… doon po nalaman na meron s’yang Biliary Atresia,” Revine recalled in an interview with AICS Chronicles, the newest DSWD online documentary that features Filipinos in crisis.

The local hospital doctors told them that children with this illness may pass away early. Ravine said that there was never a more disheartening moment than hearing those words.

But in the million times their hearts shattered at the thought of losing their child, giving up was never the answer by the husband and wife as they believed that hope and miracle may just be around the corner.

The next thing they knew, Reverie made it past his first birthday. Revine and Erica also sought a second opinion in Manila, made possible by good-hearted strangers who paid for their plane tickets.

At the Philippine Children’s Medical Center (PCMC), doctors gave them news they did not expect — that Reverie did not have Biliary Atresia but Alagille Syndrome.

While it was by far treatable compared to the previous diagnosis, it also had a deadline to beat. Baby Reverie has to undergo a liver transplant so he can survive.

It was another wave of challenge to conquer, and tons of bills to settle. The cost of having a liver transplant, particularly in this case could go up to Php3 million.

That is the time that Revine reached out for help on his Facebook.

“Sa tulong po ng social media platform eh mas napapabilis po at mas napapadami hindi lang po isa- isa ‘yung makakarating po ‘yung istorya ng aking anak,” Ravine narrated.

And true enough, the fathers’ plea for help did not go unnoticed by big-hearted generous individuals and groups — including the DSWD.

Through the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), the family was provided with immediate medical assistance to help keep Baby Reverie’s treatment going while the family was still preparing for his liver transplant.

‘Yun po, sa awa po ng Diyos marami pong nakakita. Maraming nakapansin. Marami pong tumulong kagaya po sa DSWD kaya minsan magpapasalamat ka din sa timing din minsan ng sitwasyon,” Revine said.

The AICS is one of the social welfare services of the DSWD that provides medical, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance to individuals who are in crisis as assessed by social workers.

Revine said the DSWD’s gentle presence, along with good-hearted people who have reached out to them in their most difficult moments, continues to bring strength to their family.

“On behalf of my family, sa aking anak, sa aking partner… maraming salamat po kay President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at sa DSWD. Malaking tulong po ito, pinansyal para sa aking anak sa kanyang mga gastusin sa hospital at sa amin pong pang- araw-araw na gastusin. Maraming salamat po,” said Revine, who has nothing but gratitude to the government that stepped up.

For Revine and his wife, as long as their child refuses to let go and put up a fight, they will do just the same. They will make day their night and night their day, and continue believing that miracles are not only sent from above but also emanate from the goodness of people.

“Hanggang dulo, hanggang buhay pa ako kahit hanggang sa kabilang buhay, ipaglalaban ko pa rin ang anak ko,” Revine said with conviction.

The AICS Chronicles is a new online program of the DSWD hosted by Media Relations Officer Mel Cabigting of the Digital Media Service (DMS).

The program, which airs every other Monday via the DSWD Facebook page, features real-life stories of individuals and families who were able to overcome financial challenges through the help of the agency’s AICS. (LSJ)

Tides turn like they always do.

And when the turning force came bringing with it the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Project LAWA and BINHI to the coastal communities of Paypayon and Mabuhay in the town of Oras in Eastern Samar, the towns folk made sure it would create more crests than just another passing wave.

By rolling up their sleeves, tilling the forgotten soil, and building crab cages, the Oras townsfolk were able to boost their livelihood in full embrace of government aid that reached out to them.

But this time, it was more than a quest for survival, but a promise of a bountiful season for all.

Fishing for dignity

Crab farming was once a desperate game of chance for the association of crab trappers from Barangay Paypayon.

The crab farmers used to venture into murky waters with makeshift gears. There was no certainty, only the hope that the day’s catch would be enough.

Such dire situation radically changed when LAWA (Local Adaptation to Water Access) and BINHI (Breaking Insufficiency through Nutritious Harvest for the Impoverished) arrived in their community in 2024.

The DSWD’s Project LAWA and BINHI is an initiative that focuses on food security and climate resilience. It empowers local communities to cultivate agricultural and develop freshwater sources.

“Nakakatulong sa bawat pamilya sa mga miyembro namin, nakakatulong ang Project LAWA. Kasi dito na kami kumukuha ng tanim namin, dito na kami kukuha ng gulayin tapos bebenta namin, dito naman makakakuha kami ng alimango, isda,” Christopher Adorna, the president of the Barangay Paypayon Crab Trappers’ Association, told the #Kwento ng Pag-Asa at Pagbabago (#KPAP) team in an interview.

Now, the community fattens their crabs over 18 days in cages before harvesting. Under the capacity-building and training opportunities that came with the project, the association’s farming techniques were greatly enhanced, leading to more yields.

Aside from the help extended to the main livelihood source in their area, a patch of land also blossomed into a vibrant community garden beside the river.

Common vegetables such as okra, ampalaya, eggplant, patola, and stringbeans (sitaw) sprouted from recycled containers and compost-rich soil that have been cultivated by the beneficiaries themselves.

This development opened more livelihood opportunities for the association of crab trappers, as shared by Melanie Norombaba, the secretary of the association.

“Nakaharvest kami no’n. Marami kaming harvest non ma’am. Nakabili kami ng baboy nakapag-share po kami ng mga Php10,000 siguro, ma’am. Kunyare, ngayon magha-harvest kami no’n maliban sa pondo na magshe-share out malaking tulong talaga yung Project LAWA,” Melanie told KPAP.

“Nagpapasalamat po ako kasi yung tulong ng DSWD, maraming natulungan saka may aral din sa amin. Yung pang-araw-araw namin, di na kami bumibili ng ulam nandyan na, nakabenta na kami, may pagkain pa kami,” Melanie continued as she professed her gratitude to the changes the project brought into their lives.

From dumpsite to food haven

If Paypayon’s garden is inspiring, the story in Barangay Mabuhay is as poetic as the shift of the name of a local garbage dump repurposed into a productive green space.

From being called ‘Hapilan,’ which is the Bisayan term of dumpsite, the community named it to Hafeland, short for Haven for Food and Environment — now coming with a more pleasant and positive ring to the ears.

“Doon po sa Hafeland is nagha-harvest na ’yung ating mga beneficiaries for their daily consumption and needs. At the same time, if may excess po for commercial use, nagiging source din po ng extra income nila,” Jelyn Donceras said, a social welfare officer from the Oras Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) who was part of the necessary program groundwork.

What was once a place of waste is now a vibrant symbol of rebirth, bringing fresh, nutritious crops from farm tables to home cooked meals.

Through it all, the DSWD’s presence went beyond financial assistance.

DSWD personnel and partner local government units (LGUs) helped organize meetings and collaborated with other government agencies to train partner-beneficiaries.

Everyone made sure that beneficiaries are treated as partners, given the voice to shape projects that would benefit them the most, while empowering them with both knowledge and tools to level up their ventures.

“Maganda na tinutulungan kami rito at palaging may bumubisita sa amin na DSWD, DA [Department of Agriculture] yung nagpasimuno dito sa aming proyekto,” said Joey Pomarca, the Vice President for the Paypayon Crab Trappers Association.

Now, the communities of Paypayon and Mabuhay are on their ‘winning season,’ with better techniques and higher produce both from livelihood that raised them and will soon give life to their future.

Salvador Dalosa, the municipal agriculturist of Oras, Eastern Samar is happy that the farmers have deepened their knowledge on the need to schedule their harvests, prepare natural fertilizers, and alternate their crops for sustainability.

“We believe in the power of people empowerment. Kasi ang lahat ng ito eventually will become an income generating project ng associations. So, pag nakita na natin na kaya na nila, we will detach from them until such time na kaya na nilang maging independent,” Salvador said.

From Hapilan to Hafeland, from crabs to crops, this is the story of how communities rise and how government aid can bring the best out of a community when nurtured, cultivated and embraced from the ground up.

The #KPAP, the DSWD’s award winning online documentary, is a joint production of the Traditional Media Service (TMS) and the Digital Media Service (DMS) which are under the Strategic Communications. It is posted every Tuesday on the DSWD’s official Facebook page. (LSJ)

Edward Bonus was 19 years old when he lost his mother to brain cancer. From that day on, he never realized he could again feel a mother’s love until Aling Dionisia, the mother of his wife, became his mother-in-law and treated him like her own son.

“Simula po nang pumasok ako sa pamilya nila, hindi na po ako naging iba. Parang siya na po ‘yung pangalawang magulang ko,” Edward Bonus said in an interview aired over the fifth episode of the AICS Chronicles, an online documentary of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)’s Strategic Communications.

They may not be related by blood but the genuine care and kindness Edward got from his loving wife and in-law made them no less than a real family.

When Aling Dionisia’s health began to deteriorate, Edward did not think twice on devoting his time to help her with her needs. He stepped into the difficult days ahead, just like how a real son would do.

Edward and his wife were constant companions of Aling Dionisia in her regular dialysis after she was diagnosed with kidney failure three years ago.

While the entire family worked hard to address the piling hospital bills, Aling Dionisa’s condition worsened and the medical expenses ballooned even more.

Aling Dionisia also underwent open-heart surgery and shortly after, she was told of the need for a pacemaker.

Overwhelmed by the never-ending financial challenges, Edward sought the help of the DSWD.

“Kalalabas lang po namin ng hospital sa Philippine Heart Center gawa po ng na-open surgery po siya. Kaya ang ginawa ko po bilang ako po kasi ay isang online seller kaya po ako na lang ang nagpasya na mag-asikaso kaya pumunta po ako dito sa DSWD,” Edward explained.

Encouraged by a friend, Edward sought the help of the DSWD and applied for medical aid under the agency’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The AICS is one of the social welfare services of the Department that provides medical, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance to individuals who are in crisis as assessed by social workers.

The process, Edward said, was not only fast, it was filled with compassion. Social workers made sure that he would be able to secure much-needed assistance to address their family’s circumstances.

“Yung proseso is napakagaan saka yung approach po lalung-lalo na nung mga nagi-interview, the best po,” Edward said, holding back tears of joy.

Through the AICS program, Edward was able to settle part of the hospital bills and secure the essential medications. But more than the financial aid, what he received was an affirmation that the government is not just a system, but a partner in personal battles.

Edward is beyond grateful to the DSWD’s social workers as their help allowed him to be what he wanted to be most— a son repaying a mother’s love.

He regards the DSWD as a blessing sent from above to people like him who are willing to do everything to fight for their loved ones but are often bound by financial constraints.

“[Nagpapasalamat po kami syempre] unang-una po sa taas kasi syempre ginamit po ang DSWD para tulungan yung mga case po na talagang walang kakayahan kaya nagpapasalamat po kami,” Edward said.

The AICS Chronicles is a new online program of the DSWD hosted by Media Relations Officer Mel Cabigting of the Digital Media Service (DMS).

The program, which airs every other Monday via the DSWD Facebook page, features real-life stories of individuals and families who were able to overcome financial challenges through the help of the agency’s AICS. (LSJ)

For Mary Joyce Martinez, a mother of five from Talim Island in Rizal, each day means stretching every penny they had just to put food on the table.

Dreams of becoming someone her children could look up to or a neighbor her community could count on was once a quiet hope, often blurred by the noise of daily hardships and quest for survival.

But in 2013, lady luck smiled on them. Her family became part of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)— the flagship poverty-alleviation program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

What started as support for her children became the spark that awakened a leader — an advocate, and a woman who found her voice and used it to uplift others.

From small beginnings

Mary Joyce and her family’s story revolved around a small, crowded home tucked in a corner of Barangay Boor in Talim Island, Rizal.

Her husband, Emilito Martinez, would always seize earning opportunities as mechanic and laborer. But it was still quite hard to budget his income for a large family.

“Wala pa po akong trabaho noon. Bale si mister ko lang po ang may trabaho sa sobrang hirap po,” Mary Joyce shared in an interview by the Kwento ng Pag-Asa at Pagbabago or #KPAP, the online documentary of the DSWD.

When the Martinez family was enrolled into the 4Ps in 2013, the entire family felt a big sense of relief.

The cash grant helped the family heads in covering the educational and health needs of the family’s five children.

“Napakaraming sakripisyo na ginawa bilang magulang, lahat po na yong pag kakakitaan pinapasok ko po para lang po may maisuporta sa kanila. [Kaya yung nanggagaling na suporta mula sa 4Ps] napakalaking tulong po talaga sa mga gastusin namin,” Mary Joyce said.

4Ps’ transformative influence

The program’s development initiatives such as the Family Development Sessions also empowered Mary Joyce to be involved beyond the payout lines.

She took on the role of Parent Leader, organizing and guiding others in managing their benefits wisely.

Among those who were impressed by her leadership is Hazel Joyce Ocampo, a 4Ps municipal link officer

“Si Ate Mary Joyce or mas kilala namin as ”Ate MJ,” isa po sya sa pinaka active na parent leader dito sa Barangay Boor so isa po sya sa na identify namin talaga na ah yong community involvement nya dito sa community na sobrang active,” Hazel Joy explained.

Her involvement deepened as she became a Barangay Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) Officer. The once-quiet housewife had found her voice and she is now using it to protect others.

Mary Joyce’s metamorphosis did not stop there. It rippled within her family.

Her eldest, John, a monitored child under 4Ps, finished high school with honors and now serves as a Sanguniang Kabataan or SK Chairman in their barangay.

According to John, the support he got from DSWD fueled his determination to better his studies over the years.

“Dati pa talaga, wala ako sa focus. Di ako masyadong ano sa pag aaral. Pero syempre nakikita ko rin ang buhay namin. Meron naman pong tumutulong, bakit hindi ko ibibigay yong part ko bilang isang estudyante nong nag-focus po talaga ako sa pag aaral lagi po akong nasama sa top,” John said.

Thanks to the stability provided by 4Ps and the sacrifices of their parents, another daughter, Maria Cristina, is now attending college in Pampanga.

The rest of the children continue their studies—an achievement that once seemed out of reach.

Emilito, as the head of the family, was happy that his children are now steering a better life, something that he had always wanted for them.

“Wala ho kasi akong pamamana sa kanilang iba kundi ‘yong pag aaral lang kasi ako hindi ako nakatapos kaya lang ang ibibigay ko sa kanila lagi ko naman pong sinasabi sa kanila yon bilang magkakapatid sila,” Emilito shared with a smile filled with a sense of relief.

“Dahil sa 4Ps, nakakaluwag po kami kasi halos naibibigay po sa mga bata yong gusto nila nakapag aral sila ng maayos kung ano po yong mga kailangan sa school na bibili po,” Emilito continued.

4Ps is a start, not a destination

Mary Joyce knows what it feels to struggle finding your ground and purpose when going past the day without a rumbling stomach is almost a luxury.

That’s why today, she dedicates herself to uplift and encourage others—especially mothers like her.

She also actively urges co-beneficiaries to use the support they receive as a starting point, not a destination.

“Gamitin nila po sa tama yong nakukuha nilang payout sa 4P’s kasi kung sa ibang bagay po nila gagamitin, wala pong mangyayari.” Mary Joyce urges.

The Martinez family’s story holds a simple truth: behind every struggling parent is the potential for strength. Behind every child in need is the chance for greatness.

Programs like 4Ps, when paired with willpower and proposed community spirit, can ignite transformations that last a lifetime.

The Martinez family shows that there is greatness in all of us and sometimes, it just takes an extending hand and a tap on the back to uncover it.

KPAP is the award-winning online documentary program of DSWD, aired every Tuesday over the Department’s official Facebook page. (LSJ)

Artemio Bautista, known to many as Art, always thought his name would lead him to a life of painting and drawing. With a passion for the arts, he dreamt of becoming a Fine Arts student but as it turned out, fate had other plans for him.

Being a social worker wasn’t part of his dream. He never imagined that he would be working in the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Art came from a family of soldiers. His father, grandfather, and brother all served in the military, naturally leading him to consider a career in the Armed Forces too.

“Kasi, in our family wala talagang social worker and then mga teachers kasi ‘yung kapatid ko, sundalo. Tapos yung lolo ko sundalo, ‘yung tatay ko sundalo, and I decided na gusto kong sumunod sa kanila,” Art told the Kwentong Angels in Red Vests (ARV), the latest online documentary of the DSWD’s Strategic Communications.

Art’s father, however, persuaded him to choose a different path.

“Sabi ng father ko, ‘tama na kaming sakripisyo so maghanap ka anak ng ibang kurso’. Interested kasi ako dati ng Fine Arts, talagang ’yun talaga ang pinaka-dream ko sa buhay kaya lang alam mo naman ang mga farmers sa Mindanao dati walang mga puhunan. Mahirap ang buhay,” Art narrated.

Knowing that life is hard for a farmer’s family in Mindanao, Art immediately gave up on his dream of taking the expensive Fine Arts course.

Art first tried a Civil Engineering course at the Mindanao State University (MSU) but since he enrolled late, he ended up taking Bachelor of Arts not knowing it would lead him to a new purpose in life.

One day, while sitting under a tree in MSU overlooking Marawi City, Art prayed and asked God what course he should take.

That’s when a fellow church member approached him and asked, “Gusto mo bang maging tagapagtanggol ng mga mahihirap?”

Art was taken aback by the random question.

“‘Yun po yung nag-strike sa akin. Sabi ko ‘may kurso bang tagapagtanggol ng mahihirap maliban sa military’. Maliban sa military wala namang tagapagtanggol. Sabi niya [church mate], meron, social work,” Art vividly recalled.
By chance, the dean of the social work program was the uncle of his church friend so the transfer from Bachelor of Arts to Social Work was smooth and easy.

“Maniwala kayo sa hindi, ang social work ay napamahal lang sa akin noong third year na ako,” Art said.

His love for social work grew stronger when he had his field practice in Iligan City. The barangay where he was assigned was hit by a disaster and his supervisor asked him to write a proposal to help the community.

“‘Mag draft ka ng proposal at i-endorse natin’. Bilang estudyante, gusto ko talaga ’yung magsulat, ‘yung magpakitang-gilas. Nag-draft ako ng proposal at noong i-submit niya doon sa Iligan City, in-approve na ‘yun. That‘s the first time na ung proposal kong ginawa na in-approve ng isang city social welfare officer,” Art narrated..

He then recalled: “Pagbalik ko sa university, napamahal na sakin ‘yung social work office non. That’s the time sabi ko, truly, God predestined me to this. ‘Yun na ’yon, napamahal na sa’kin.”

Art graduated with a degree in Social Work in 1993 and started his career at the DSWD later on.
Dedicated to his work, Art is now the section head of the Policy, Quality, Assurance and Compliance Section of the DSWD’s Crisis Intervention Unit (CIU).

After many years of service, Art has this message for fellow social workers: “Tuloy lang kayo kasi kayo yung pag-asa ng ating bayan. Ang social worker ay kayang gumawa ng isang pamilyang maayos, isang pamilyang masaya habang nagtatrabaho.”

The Kwentong ARV is hosted by Director Lara Ang Duran of the Traditional Media Service (TMS) and airs every other Monday over the DSWD Facebook page. It features stories of social workers and agency personnel dedicated to serving poor Filipinos with extra love and extra care. (YADP)

Coffee lovers, how do you like your coffee? Some people like it hot. Others prefer it iced. Some crave its strong and bitter taste or love it with lots of sugar and cream.

But for Rodiyo Tacdoy of Benguet province, a former monitored child of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), a coffee is more than just a drink as he took the La Trinidad-grown coffee to the next level.

Proof to this was when Rodiyo Tacdoy was able to sell his special coffee beans for a hefty price of Php9,900 per kilo during the Philippine Coffee Quality Competition (PCQC) last May 9.

The 22-year-old Rodiyo also made history in the Philippine-grown coffee business when he emerged as winner in the Arabica category during last month’s competition.

The taste of Rodiyo’s coffee surprised everyone when a buyer made a bid of Php1,158,300 for 117 kilos of his Benguet-grown beans.

Rodiyo humbly shared that this was his way of giving back to the land that raised him, and brought honor to his family of farmers from Barangay Wangal in La Trinidad, Benguet.

What’s the secret behind this one-of-a-kind brew? Rodiyo’s determination and strong purpose to achieve a better life.

4Ps as game changer for Tacdoy family

Rodiyo grew up with his parents and his five all-girl siblings who were later supported by the 4Ps program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in 2012. His father, who farms various fruits and vegetables for a living, was the family’s breadwinner at that time.

As recalled by Rodiyo, the conditional cash grants they received went a long way and was the game changer for the Tacdoy family.

Rodiyo is grateful to the national government’s anti-poverty program as he owes it to 4Ps that he was able to secure his senior high school diploma despite his family’s low income. In addition, the Tacdoy family also had the means to support their siblings’ health needs because of the 4Ps program.

“Before kami naging miyembro ng 4Ps, talagang kapos kami sa pangangailangan sa pag-aaral. Ang 4Ps ay nagbigay ng malaking tulong sa amin upang bigyang importansya ang aming pag-aaral. Kahit may kalayuan ang aming eskwelahan, nagbigay sigla ang tulong ng 4Ps sa aming magkakapatid. Dahil sa 4Ps, nakapagtapos ako ng Senior High School,” Rodiyo shared in an interview with the DSWD’s Field Office (FO) – Cordillera Administrative Region.

Family Development Sessions

Rodiyo narrated that aside from the cash grants, the learning and knowledge he gained from the Family Development Sessions (FDS) helped him mature as a responsible and persevering person.

“Naranasan ko na mag-attend ng FDS at napakadami kong natutunan doon. Bilang panganay, may mga pagkakataon na ako ang pinapadalo ni mama. Isa sa mga natutunan ko ay ang pagiging isang ehemplo sa aking mga kapatid, paano sila alagaan, at pagiging isang mabuting anak,” the former 4Ps monitored child said.

And when life threw another curveball when his father had a motorcycle accident, Rodiyo’s determination to help his parents and siblings never faltered despite how difficult the incident was for their family.

“So parang yun nga po yung simula ng interes sa kape kasi hindi na makapagtrabaho yung father ko wala nang pagkukunan ng gastusin ganon. Tapos ayun, nakita ko nga po yung mga coffee beans ng grandfather ko, tinignan ko bakit nasayang, ano kaya ang pwedeng gawin para mapakinabangan?,” Rodiyo pointed out.

Rodiyo took the chance to learn how to harvest and sell the beans himself. Little did he know, this first step would not only get them back on their feet but forever change his life.

“At nung sinimulan namin, yung knowledge ng father ko inassist niya po kami so sabi niya ganito, ganito gawin niyo. Then may mga coffee farmers din na pinagkunan namin ng knowledge para maproces po ang kape namin,” Rodiyo shared.

From 4Ps-monitored kid to coffee entrepreneur

Rodiyo learned modern techniques like anaerobic fermentation and the cultivation of beans with other flavors such as lychee, tropical fruit, and floral flavors.

“Yung coffee na pinrocess namin na guided by my father, sinali po namin sa La Trinidad competition, naka-second po siya, so do’n po kami nagka-interes about coffee politics. 2020 tinuloy po namin po hanggang 2021 stable naman po yung phasing nasa first and second din ako nung 2023. Nung 2024 po dun tayo nagkainteres na mag-increase sa national PCQC,” Rodiyo said in his recollection.

At the 2024 PCQC, Rodiyo made history as the youngest contestant.

A year later, he brewed another historic moment, this time, as a champion who was able to sell his coffee to the highest bid ever recorded in the prestigious competition.

With his string of success, Rodiyo happily shared his intent to pursue his love for coffee while earning enough to support himself and his family. He also bared plans to continue his study while pursuing his passion for growing coffee beans.

“Ituloy ko pa rin ang pagtatanim ng kape. Pero, gusto kong ituloy ang aking pag-aaral. Balak ko na ituloy ang matagal kong pangarap na kukuha ng Engineering. Pero sa ngayon, kailangan kong mag-ipon para may sapat akong gagamitin sa pag-aaral ko,” Rodiyo said.

“Gusto ko rin na makatapos sa pag-aaral ang aking mga kapatid upang mas mabigyan kami ng magandang kinabukasan,” Rodiyo continued.

Rodiyo is also now mentoring other young farmers, passing on what he’s learned, and helping others believe that a future in farming isn’t just possible— it can be powerful and uplifting.

“Gusto ko rin na matutunan ng iba pang mga kasama na nagtatanim ng kape na bigyang importansiya ang tamang pagtanim at pagproseso ng kape, dahil ang kape natin dito sa Benguet ay talagang may kalidad,” Rodiyo said.

While his family is about to exit 4Ps as they have attained a level 3 or self-sufficient status, Rodiyo said he will forever be grateful to the program. He is also thrilled to take a leap into the next chapter, knowing so well that a bright future not only awaits him and his family, but also, for the hard-working coffee farmers of La Trinidad.

In a world where young people are often told to leave the farms for something “better,” Rodiyo is a living example that there are times that the best path forward is the one that brings you back home.

The 4Ps is the national anti-poverty alleviation program of the Government implemented by the DSWD with the objective of breaking the inter-generational cycle of poverty. Like the Tacdoy family, the program intends to help the beneficiaries reach an improved quality of lives. (LSJ)