For Aaron Paul Millena Lolor, the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) was never simply financial aid; it was the motivation that carried him through some of the toughest chapters of his life. “For others, 4Ps may just be financial aid, but for me, it was my motivation to do well in school, knowing that the government was helping us. I wanted my family to be proud,” Aaron said, reflecting on his journey with gratitude.

In October 2024, that drive culminated in a remarkable achievement when he placed fourth in the Geodetic Engineers Licensure Examination.

Graduated Cum Laude from Bicol University and a former scholar of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Aaron’s success marked a milestone not only for him but for his family, who exited from the 4Ps program last May 2024 as the household has been assessed as self-sufficient already based on the result of the Social Welfare Development Indicator (SWDI).

Aaron’s family of nine has always worked together to ensure that every sibling has a shot at education and a brighter future. He is the fifth of seven siblings, with each family member supporting one another to pursue their aspirations. Now a licensed geodetic engineer, Aaron has two younger siblings who are still in high school and are determined to achieve their own dreams.

Their family’s income from his parents’ small tailoring business, combined with 4Ps support, made education possible despite financial challenges. “Mas naging okay kami nang dumating ang 4Ps,” he shared, crediting the program for helping with daily needs and educational expenses when it seemed nearly impossible to meet them all.

While he may not have initially envisioned himself as a geodetic engineer, he found his passion along the way. Aaron originally pursued an Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM) strand in senior high school, with a business-focused future in mind. However, he later shifted to geodetic engineering, discovering the course’s relevance and growing to love it. “It wasn’t my dream course, but I grew to love it as I studied and discovered its relevance,” Aaron explained.

Despite challenges including studying during the pandemic and pooling resources for tuition, these obstacles only strengthened his resolve. He showed his dedication even before college. He attended Bagumbayan Central School for elementary, Anislag for Junior High, and Daraga National High School for Senior High. A driven student, he competed in the Provincial Exemplary Child Search in Albay during Grade 8 and served as a sports writer in high school and editor-in-chief of his college’s publication. His leadership and academic achievements at Bicol University earned him recognition and paved his path toward the top.

Going into the Geodetic Engineers Licensure Examination, Aaron was determined to be among the top passers. However, he was initially overwhelmed by the unexpected questions on the exam. “Gusto ko talagang mag-top sa board exam, pero nang nakita ko ang mga tanong, na-stress ako. Hindi ko talaga in-expect na magta-top ako,” he admitted. Yet, despite his doubts, he secured the fourth spot, a proud moment for him and his family.

The Lolor family also credits 4Ps for positively transforming their lives beyond financial support. The Family Development Sessions (FDS) required by 4Ps fostered family unity and strengthened their bonds. “Aside from the financial assistance, the program brought us closer together. We would help each other complete the sessions, and it made us more united as a family,” he shared.

As he steps into his future as a licensed geodetic engineer, he remains deeply grateful for the role 4Ps played in his success. He and his family have used the program not as a crutch, but as a stepping stone toward independence and self-reliance. “We used 4Ps as a tool, we used it well, kaya we are very grateful,” he reflected on their journey. For him, 4Ps isn’t just a chapter; it’s part of his story.

His journey from a young boy aspiring for a better life to a topnotcher engineer inspires countless other program beneficiaries to believe in themselves and persevere. Aaron’s story stands as a testament to how programs like 4Ps, combined with hard work, resilience, and a family’s unwavering support, can transform lives and build a brighter future. ###