President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has ordered the realignment of ₱36 billion originally intended for flood control projects under the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), channeling the funds instead to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to expand social welfare services.
The announcement came during a gathering with Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries at Malacañang Palace on Friday, held as part of the culmination of the National Family Congress 2025.
“Mga kababayan, ikinalulugod kong ibahagi sa inyo ang halos ₱36 billion na pondo galing sa DPWH na nakuha natin sa flood control projects. Itong halaga na ito ay ilalaan natin sa mga programa sa DSWD,” Marcos said. He added: “Kayo po ang dahilan at nagbibigay sa amin ng inspirasyon at lakas ng loob na gawin ang aming trabaho ng mabuti at matapat para matulungan ang aming minamahal na kababayan.”
The President explained that the reallocated budget will cover major DSWD programs such as the 4Ps, Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), the Sustainable Livelihood Program, and the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) initiative.
Marcos also revealed that his administration is studying possible amendments to Republic Act 11310, or the 4Ps Act, to make the program more responsive to the changing needs of vulnerable families.
“Alam nating lahat na ang pamilya ay ang mahalagang haligi ng lipunan. Sabi nga nila na kapag matatag ang pamilya, matatag ang komunidad. At kung matatag ang komunidad, mas mabilis ang pag-unlad ng ating bansa,” he said. “Kaya pakay ng aking administrasyon na walang pamilyang Pilipino ang dapat maiwanan.”
Since its launch, the 4Ps has served as the government’s flagship poverty reduction program, extending conditional cash transfers to millions of households to improve health, education, and overall well-being. Marcos emphasized that his government remains committed to strengthening it further.
“Sinisiguro po nating bawat hakbang ay nakabatay sa masusing pagsusuri upang manatiling matibay at epektibo ang 4Ps sa lahat ng mga nangangailangan nito,” he said, vowing to help every Filipino live “with comfort and dignity.”
The event also recognized 18 exemplary 4Ps families as Huwarang Pantawid Pamilya, who each received plaques of recognition and ₱10,000 cash awards.