In 2011, the family of Sheena Mae Obispo from Camalig, Albay became a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). As a young child filled with hopes and dreams, she was determined to finish her studies and pursue her dream vocation.
In September 2024, one of those dreams has been fulfilled, as Sheena Mae has not only passed — but topped — the Licensure Examination for Social Workers. Her story is proof that no matter how long and difficult the journey may be… nothing is impossible for those who work hard and believe in themselves!
Image Credit: fo5.dswd.gov.ph
Former 4Ps Monitored Child, Now Board Exam Topnotcher
Sheena Mae hails from the remote barangay of Panoypoy in Camalig, Albay. Her father, Eddie, worked as a construction worker and painter, while her mother, Teresita, stayed at home to take care of their three children. Despite having few resources, Sheena Mae’s parents made sure that their children received quality education.
Getting Educational Grants from 4Ps
In 2011, the Obispo family became a beneficiary of the 4Ps, registered under Set 5A. Through the program’s educational grants, the family was able to support Sheena Mae’s schooling.
“I grew up knowing the value of hard work and the importance of education,” Sheena Mae said, as cited in a DSWD press release. “My parents sacrificed a lot to make sure I stayed in school.”
Sheena Mae completed her elementary education at Floresta Elementary School in Jovellar, Albay. Afterwards, she studied at Cotmon National High School in Camalig, before moving with her aunt in Anislag, Daraga for senior high school. Even then, she knew the course she wanted to take up in college.
“I always knew I was destined for social work,” she explained. “I wanted to help communities like mine and saw how essential social workers are in uplifting families.” In college, she took up a degree in Social Work at Bicol University, Daraga Campus.
Overcoming Challenges During the Pandemic
Just as Sheena Mae was starting her first year in college, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, and classes were shifted online. Being in a mountainous area with poor Internet connectivity, she worried about missing her classes.
“There were times when I couldn’t attend online classes because we had no signal,” she recalled. “It felt like I was missing out, and I had severe anxiety about falling behind.”
But Sheena Mae was determined to study. To help her keep up with online classes, the family set up a small fish ball stand and sold vegetables. “I knew I had to make it work, not just for myself but for them too,” she declared.
Becoming Part of KALAHI-CIDSS
Eventually, as part of her college degree requirements, Sheena Mae completed her field instruction with the DSWD Field Office 5 KALAHI-CIDSS program. From February to May, 2024, she was assigned to Barangay Ilaur Sur in Oas, Albay.
“Working in communities opened my eyes and deepened my understanding of its importance,” she reflected. “It solidified my commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others, inspiring me to dedicate my career to uplifting those in need.”
Topping the Board Exam for Social Workers
After graduation, Sheena Mae focused on preparing for the Licensure Examination for Social Workers. When the results came out in September, she was astounded to learn that she topped the exam. “I couldn’t believe it,” she shared. “All the sleepless nights, the struggles, and my family’s sacrifices — it was all worth it!”
Sheena Mae added: “I would not have made it this far without the love and support of my family and the opportunities provided by 4Ps.”
Today, Sheena Mae is a licensed social worker who is determined to give back and help communities. “I owe it to the people who helped me along the way,” she said. “I want to use my skills to uplift others, especially those from marginalized communities like mine.”
Image Credit: Department of Social Welfare and Development – DSWD / Facebook
Helping More Families Overcome Poverty
“Social work is about more than just providing services; it’s about giving people hope and the tools to change their lives,” Sheena Mae stated as she planned to work with local organizations and government programs like 4Ps. Recently, her plan pushed through!
Based on a press release from the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), Sheena Mae has been appointed as Project Development Officer II in DSWD Field Office 5. On October 1, 2024, DSWD Regional Director Norman Laurio led the signing of her appointment and oath-taking ceremony. The day also served as “Araw ng Parangal” (Award Day) for Sheena Mae, as DSWD recognized her outstanding performance as a 4Ps beneficiary.
“You have inspired more than 400,000 4Ps beneficiaries across the region and 4.4 million nationwide,” the regional director said. “DSWD is extremely proud of your achievement.”
During her speech, Sheena Mae encouraged other 4Ps beneficiaries like her and her brother, who is currently pursuing college education. She urged them to aim high and to make the most of the government support that is given to them.
“Maaari kong ipagmalaki sa harap ng lahat na ang 4Ps ay higit pa sa ayuda (I can proudly say in front of everyone that 4Ps is more than just aid),” she declared. “Ako ay patunay na hindi tayo dole-out (I am proof that we are not just dole-outs).”
The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps)
The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was launched in 2008 and institutionalized in 2019 by Republic Act. No. 11310 or the “4Ps Act.” It is the flagship poverty reduction strategy of the national government, giving conditional cash transfers to poor families and providing them various services to uplift their lives.
The 4Ps programs provides beneficiaries with educational grants, health grants, rice subsidies, and other interventions.
Final Thoughts
Indeed, Sheena Mae’s inspiring story shows that through hard work, determination, and support from programs like the 4Ps — anyone, regardless of background or economic situation — can reach for the stars and fulfill their dreams.
Notably, Sheena Mae joins a list of other 4Ps beneficiaries who have excelled in school and in their careers. Among them is a Dexter Astorga, a former 4Ps beneficiary who topped a board exam, and is now a network engineer. View this article to read his story!