CALANASAN, Apayao – Terelyn L. Sion of Poblacion Calanasan, Apayao recently graduated as a social worker, took her board exam, and passed it.
This success she achieved, according to her, could have not been possible if it were not for the support she received through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the DSWD.
“And 4Ps ay malaki ang naging tulong sa aking pag-aaral dahil nakapagbigay ito ng suporta sa aking mga pangangailangan bilang mag-aaral. Sa tulong ng cash grants mula sa programa, nagkaroon ako ng sapat na pondo para sa mga school supplies, pamasahe, at iba pang gastusin sa paaralan,” said Terelyn.
The newly registered social worker related that since her elementary days to high school, life had been difficult, but through the 4Ps program, their needs had been made easier to bear. With the cash grant, the family, according to Terelyn, was able to have enough food, medicine, and fees for the schooling which lessen the burden her parents had to shoulder.
Furthermore, she recounted that through the 4Ps program, she and her siblings were provided access to health care as one of the conditions of 4Ps is regular check-up and vaccination for kids.
With her family as her source of inspiration, Terelyn said she studied hard to make sure the 4Ps aid will not go to waste and so she will also be able to give back to her community. She believes that she was given this opportunity to reach her dreams and to serve.
During her days in the university, Terelyn faced several challenges and the biggest one was the lack of finances. Thus, year on year, she decided not to go home to Calanasan for 9 months to reduce expenses until she finished schooling. In those days, she gave herself to reading, determined to obtain more knowledge and graduate.
Terelyn shared that dedication and commitment played critical roles in her success. At times, she was in quandary and had troubles understanding lessons but she kept going back to her dream and kept moving. After years of hard work, she finally finished and graduated with merit. Additionally, she passed the board exam.
In her Facebook post, she thanked God for the guidance and strength she received during those trying times. By Loremia Pareja