MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon (January 22, 2026) – Poverty, faith, and family shaped the journey of Mylene Jane Gamayon De La Cruz, a former Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiary from Barangay Liboran, Baungon, Bukidnon, who placed eighth in the November 2025 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET)

Mylene drew strength from life’s hardships to pursue her dream of becoming a teacher. She credited her success to God, her family, and the challenges of poverty that pushed her to persevere.  

“The 4Ps program inspired me to dream not only for myself but also for my family. It motivated me to work harder so we can one day live a comfortable and secure life,” Mylene said.  

She lost her mother at an early age and grew up under her grandmother’s care alongside her younger brother after her father remarried. Although her father continued to support them, his low income made daily life difficult.  

Through unity, communication, and mutual support, her family overcame these challenges. Poverty did not discourage her; instead, it fueled her determination to become the best version of herself.  

Before joining the 4Ps program, the family struggled to meet basic needs. The program provided financial assistance, guidance, and hope, allowing them to stabilize and plan for a better future.

Shaping values

Mylene credited the 4Ps Family Development Sessions (FDS) for shaping her life. The sessions taught her to manage challenges both financially and emotionally. Beyond cash grants, the 4Ps program strengthened her faith, resilience, and dreams.

“Through FDS, I learned that poverty is not a hindrance to success. With determination, hard work, and a willingness to learn, it is possible to rise above challenges,” she said.

The source of strength

As devoted Christians, Mylene and her family relied on their faith as a steady anchor. Whether navigating bouts of illness, stretching limited finances, or overcoming hurdles in college, they looked to prayer as their primary compass for guidance and hope.  

During the board exam season, fear and pressure overwhelmed her, but she surrendered her worries to God, finding the courage and peace to move forward.

Home values and discipline

Her father and grandmother instilled respect, discipline, and hope. They taught accountability, perseverance, and the belief that hard work and prayer would bear fruit. These values guided her academic journey and shaped her character.

Balancing responsibilities and dreams

While studying at Cagayan de Oro College, Mylene carefully balanced academics, family responsibilities, and self-care. She commuted between school and home, helped with household chores, spent quality time with her family, and dedicated evenings to studying.

She also motivated herself by celebrating small achievements, keeping her focus and determination strong.

Hope for a better future

Mylene dreams of a stable teaching career to provide for her family. She hopes her siblings finish their studies and secure stable jobs, and she prays for her father’s and grandmother’s health so they can witness her achievements.  

She also dreams of owning a home, traveling, and continuing to support her family.

Giving back to community

Mylene and her family remain active in community service in Barangay Liboran. They view participation as a way to give back and express gratitude for the programs that supported them during difficult times.

Gratitude to DSWD and 4Ps

Mylene thanked the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the 4Ps program for helping her achieve her dreams.  

 “Without your assistance, I would not be where I am today. I hope this program continues to help struggling Filipino families and inspire children like me to pursue their dreams,” Mylene said.  

She also encouraged fellow 4Ps beneficiaries to value the program beyond cash assistance, support their children’s education, and never allow poverty to hinder their goals.  

“Work hard, stay determined, and pray until your dreams become a reality,” she urged.  

The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is the government’s flagship poverty reduction initiative managed by the DSWD. It provides conditional cash transfers to improve the health, nutrition, and education of poor households. Currently, 181,814 families in Northern Mindanao benefit from the program.  (DSWD-10/PIA-10)