Roxas vows to institutionalize 4Ps

MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Jan. 27 (PNA) -– Liberal Party presidential bet Manuel “Mar” Roxas will push for the institutionalization of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) if elected as Chief Executive in the upcoming elections.

This was the implication of Roxas in his speech at the city gym during his visit on Sunday in this 15-year-old component city, comprising 70 villages.

Roxas was inspired by story of a girl from Limasawa Island that despite her family’s poverty, she was able to complete secondary as valedictorian because of her self-imposed sacrifice and determination.

“I will broaden the scope of 4Ps so that it can continue to help poor Filipino families particularly in education,” he told local officials. 

Governor Roger Mercado interpreted Roxas’ implied statement concerning 4Ps as a move towards its institutionalization.

Roxas vowed to persuade Congress to enact a law so that whoever is the seating President, he will inevitably be obliged to implement the program

“Governor Mercado affirmed that if he will succeed in his congressional bid, he will initiate the enactment of such law to strengthen its desired realization to help the many poor families in the entire country,” he added.

During the open forum, local officials pointed out that the program must formulate rules and regulations to prohibit any parent-recipient to buy cigarettes, alcoholic beverages or use it for gambling. 

Other concerned citizens also stressed that the 4Ps program should extend its monthly financial assistance to lucky beneficiaries-students to take four to five years in college in order for them to easily meet either academic or vocational qualifications and requirements.

Roxas admitted that he is not a perfect candidate, but he claimed that he is not boastful, neither act deception or stealing of public funds.

The grandson of the late President Manuel Roxas further expressed his intention to help Maasin Airport gets additional funding for its completion, which is long overdue. 

Roxas climbed up the bleachers one after the other to shake hands with the throng of supporters and friends composed of local officials and students.

It took him 35 minutes to finish his personal encounter with them before moving towards the stage where local officials led by the governor and congressman were seated. (PNA)

FFC/SQM/QUIRICO M. GORPIDO JR.