In a remote corner of Ligao City, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4P’s) has taken a groundbreaking step toward inclusive governance with the installation of a Grievance Box at Sitio Tambac, Maonon through the Pantawid Parent Leaders. This initiative aims to encourage active and broad citizenship engagement in the program’s implementation.

Situated in an accessible location, the Grievance Box stands as a symbol of transparency and accountability. Its purpose is clear: to address concerns and issues surrounding the implementation of the 4P’s. Its anonymity sets it apart, allowing individuals from all walks of life—be they 4P’s beneficiaries, non-4P’s households, or stakeholders—to voice their grievances without fear of reprisal.

“Layunin ng paglalagay namin ng grievance box na bigyan ng pagkakataon ang lahat na residente sa aming Sitio na ibahagi ang kanilang mga katanungan o hinaing tungkol sa 4P’s. Sa pamamagitan po nito, mabibigyan din ng oportunidad ang mga (Persons with Disabilities o PWD lalo na ang walang kakahayang magsalita na isulat ang kanilang mga nais ipaabot sa gobyerno”, (The purpose of us putting up a grievance box is to provide all residents in our community with the opportunity to share their questions or grievances regarding the 4P’s. Through this, PWDs (Persons with Disabilities) will also be given the chance, especially those who are unable to speak, to write down their concerns to be conveyed to the government.” Rodesa Balidoy Gonzales, one of the Parent Leader and 4Ps beneficiary shared in an interview.

What makes this initiative particularly noteworthy is its adaptation to the challenges of rural life. In areas like Sitio Tambac, where telecommunication signals are minimal, traditional modes of communication often fall short. The Grievance Box serves as an alternative platform, bridging the gap between the community and program implementers.

To ensure that grievances are kept safe from changing weather conditions such as rain or extreme heat, the grievance box was made using metal scraps and it also has a key. The grievances collected in the grievance box will be retrieved by the City Municipal Link assigned in the area and will be discussed during meetings of beneficiaries.

Parent Leader Rodesa added “Ang paglalagay naming ng grievance box ay isa rin sa paraan namin ng pagtulong at pasasalamat sa gobyerno. Naniniwala kami na kapag tinutulungan ka ng gobyerno, dapat ay tulungan mo din ang sarili mo lalo na ang ibang tao sa anumang paraan na alam mo”. “Our installation of the grievance box is also one of our ways of providing help and expressing gratitude to the government. We believe that when the government helps you, you should also help yourself and others in any way you can.”

Since the enactment of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps Act (RA 11310), the Grievance Redress System has been an essential component, ensuring transparency and accountability within the initiative.

Integral to the program’s framework, the Grievance Redress System enables beneficiaries to voice their concerns, file complaints, and seek resolution regarding various aspects of program implementation.

As the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program continues to evolve and expand its reach, the Grievance Redress System remains a cornerstone, fostering trust and confidence among beneficiaries and stakeholders alike. Just like the installation of the Grievance Box in a remote area of Ligao City, it continues to empower voices and drive positive change toward uplifting the lives of the Filipino people through meaningful social interventions.