Bohol family is 2014 4Ps awardee

CEBU, Philippines - A awardee from the province of Bohol will represent Central Visayas for the Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya 2014.

 Norma and Genaro Ewican and their six children of Barangay Alegria, Carmen, Bohol bested over 40 qualifiers in the regionwide selection that seeks to recognize family beneficiaries of the Department of Social Welfare and Development  Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

They were chosen based on the criteria of maintaining strong family ties, demonstrating positive Filipino values, and inculcating positive impact in the community where they reside.

“We may not have so much in wealth but our children and their achievements have been our priceless possessions,” said the winning family of the 2014 Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya Central Visayas. They became a beneficiary of the DSWD program in 2011.

 Norma, 44, recounted that amidst many life challenges, her family managed to survive, citing the cash aid provided by the 4Ps has greatly helped them in regularly meeting their basic needs including new school uniforms.

 She added that her children, who are all achievers, are now more inspired to go to school wearing new sets of uniforms, shoes and bags.

Despite being elected as barangay councilwoman with P3,000 monthly honorarium, Norma disclosed that life is still not easy for them because her husband’s farming income is seasonal while the needs of their children increase.

Four of the couple’s children are currently enrolled in college and high school while the other two, who are high school graduates, are trying to help the family earn additional income.

  As the regional winner, Ewican family will automatically represent DSWD Field Office VII for the national search where the grand winner will receive P30,000 cash and a plaque.

Other families who made it to the regional search include Albasin Family of Dumanjug, Cebu (first runner-up), Ates Family of Maria, Siquijor (second runner-up), and Alaban Family of Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental (third runner-up).  (FREEMAN)