The strong partnership between the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in various communities in Cebu has become a model of sustainable development based on cooperation and good governance. This collaboration shows that fighting poverty is not limited to providing financial aid but also includes strengthening security, institutions, and public awareness to create more responsible and resilient community members.
Family Development Sessions as a Platform for Change
One of the key activities of the 4Ps program is the Family Development Session (FDS), a platform where beneficiaries are taught about good behavior, social awareness, life principles, and other important lessons for the family and community. Here, the government provides not only financial support but also improves the mindset and social well-being of each family.
While the DSWD leads the program, the PNP plays a significant role in strengthening its implementation. Through their active participation in FDS, the campaign for order, protection, and public safety is reinforced. Their involvement helps beneficiaries understand the importance of law, discipline, and maintaining peace in their communities.
Police Lectures on Crime Prevention and Rights
During each FDS, the PNP delivers lectures and discussions on crime, legal knowledge, and rights protection. They also conduct seminars on drug prevention, cyber safety, anti-bullying, and gender-based violence to make residents more alert and informed. As a result, beneficiaries not only receive aid but become more educated and responsible citizens.
Leading this effort is Police Staff Sergeant Arnie G. Rendon, Officer-in-Charge of the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) at the Oslob Municipal Police Station. Since 2022, he has integrated protective services into the 4Ps platform. Under his leadership, beneficiaries are taught their rights and laws protecting women and children, such as Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act), Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act), and Republic Act No. 8353 (Anti-Rape Law of 1997).
Expanding Community-Centered Approach
In the towns of Oslob and Dalaguete, the PNP continues to expand its community-centered approach to strengthen 4Ps implementation. They also enhance police-community relations through open communication to encourage early reporting of incidents and concerns. Legal advice, immediate assistance, and referral services are provided for victims of abuse and exploitation.
The PNP also disseminates information on crime trends, safety measures, and emergency protocols through 4Ps networks to make beneficiaries more alert and prepared to face community threats. In Dalaguete, this collaboration has reached 21 out of 33 barangays and continues to expand to reach more families.
Positive Impact on Communities
According to officials, the positive effects of this partnership are already evident, including increased trust in the police and reduced crime rates in communities. The efforts of PSSg. Rendon and other police officers prove that when law enforcement becomes a partner in development, communities are not only protected but also strengthened through education, cooperation, and active participation.
