As the flagship program of the national government in poverty reduction and social development, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) has transformed the lives of thousands of Filipino families. Many of the program’s beneficiaries have become successful — achieving financial independence, education for their children — and some even achieving international recognition!
One fantastic example is Ana Bhianca Espenilla, a monitored child of the 4Ps program who recently won a gold medal for the Philippines in the 13th ASEAN School Games, which was held from June 1 to 7, 2024 at the Hoa Xuan Stadium in Da Nang, Vietnam.
4Ps Beneficiary Bags Gold for Girls Javelin Throw
Ana Bhianca Espenilla is a Grade 10 student from Masbate Sports Academy. Just recently, she bagged the gold medal for the Girls Javelin Throw event, with an outstanding throw of 52.07 meters!
“The DSWD and the entire nation celebrate Espenilla’s triumph,” DSWD Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Manage Group (DRMG) Irene Dumlao declared, as cited in a press release. “You make us all in the DSWD very proud of your accomplishment.”
Ana Bhianca is the daughter of a rice farmer and housewife Beverly Gebelaguin Espenilla, a resident of Buenos Aires, San Fernando, Masbate.
“Their household is one of the beneficiaries of 4Ps,” Asst. Sec. Dumlao stated. “The program aims to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty by investing in human capital. The program provides cash grants to improve their health, nutrition, and education, particularly for those 0-18 years old.”
DSWD Bicol Regional Director Praises Espenilla
For his part, the Regional Director for DSWD Field Office 5 – Bicol commended Ana Bhianca for her outstanding achievement. Director Norman Laurio praised her hard work, dedication, and perseverance, stating that her win has brought great pride not only to San Fernando, Masbate… but also to the entire country!
“As a 4Ps beneficiary, your success serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with determination and support, great heights can be reached,” Director Laurio said, as shared in a Facebook post by DSWD Field Office 5 – Bicol.
“Keep striving for excellence, and may you continue to achieve even greater accomplishments in the future,” he added. “DSWD is proud of you!”
Aside from Ana Bhianca, two other Filipino athletes won medals at the 13th ASEAN School Games in Vietnam. Courtney Jewel Trangia won the gold medal for Girls Discus Throw, and Loraine Audrey Batalla won the bronze medal for Girls 400-meter Hurdles. Congratulations to all of you!
Final Thoughts
Indeed, Ana Bhianca’s triumph at the ASEAN School Games is a shining example that hard work and dedication are key to achieving success. Thanks to the 4Ps program, her family continues to be developed, transformed, and empowered, as well!
Once again, congratulations to Ana Bhianca Espenilla and to all the Filipino athletes who participated in the ASEAN School Games!
As mentioned earlier, the 4Ps program has greatly changed the lives of many Filipinos. In this article, learn how the program has transformed the life of a poor family in Misamis Occidental.