Lived experiences of pantawid pamilyang pilipino program (4Ps) beneficiaries in antique: a narrative inquiry / Yeonah Madel A. Amar, Dane Albert J. Lavega, Aldrin C. Limen, Ashley Nicole S. Roel, Dave S. Sarte, Amelia M. Vegafria

Includes bibliographical references.

Abstract

The study explored the lived experiences of beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in the Municipality of Bugasong, Antique. The research aimed to understand how beneficiaries navigate daily socio-economic challenges, allocate cash grants, and develop coping mechanisms while participating in the program. Ten (10 purposively selected 4Ps beneficiaries participated in in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. The collected data were analyzed through thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes across participants' narratives. The findings reveal that before joining the program, beneficiaries experience chronic financial instability characterized by a hand-to-mouth existence and reliance on informal seasonal labor. While the 4Ps grant significantly alleviates immediate financial burdens particularly in sustaining children's education and health needs, it is often insufficient to cover all daily costs. Participants demonstrated high level of agency and "diskarte" (survival strategies) seeking additional income through odd jobs and informal labor to bridge the financial gap.

The study concludes that while the 4Ps is a vital supplementary support system that fosters educational persistence and responsible parenting, it does not eliminate poverty. The researchers recommend periodic adjustments to grant amount to much inflation and the integration of "exit-strategy" livelihood support, such as skills training and capital equipment, to ensure long- term sustainability and economic independence for families graduating from the program.

Keywords: Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), lived experiences, narrative inquiry, Antique

Theses/Dissertations