“In today’s difficult life, even if we want to give up, we can’t and must not. Let us think about our children. We, as parents, must show how to be strong.”
These simple yet powerful words from Naty V. Coralde, a parent and Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiary from Barangay Nato, Sagñay, Camarines Sur, capture the essence of resilience and parental responsibility. Her heartfelt message serves as an inspiration to fellow beneficiaries, urging them to persevere through hardships, overcome poverty, and work toward a brighter future for their families.
For Naty, raising nine children was not just a challenge but a daily battle. Her husband, a fisherman earning around a thousand pesos weekly, struggled to provide for the family. Despite this, the couple explored various ways to generate income, driven by their determination to send their children to school and improve their living conditions.
Naty recalled the sacrifices they made, including moments of heartbreak and desperation. She shared how she once left her sick child with a neighbor just to queue for affordable rice at the market. In another instance, she was caught by a policeman selling fish in a restricted area—not as a lawbreaker, but as a mother simply trying to make ends meet and get home quickly to care for her children.
In 2015, their lives took a positive turn when they were registered as beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region.
With the support of 4Ps and their own unwavering resolve, the Coralde family began to rise above their circumstances. As a 4Ps grantee, Naty ensured full compliance with the program’s requirements. She attended Family Development Sessions, prioritized her children’s education, and met all health-related conditions.
“You know, my kids probably saw the hardship and determination of my husband and me. I’m glad they’re not like other youth who are often seen idling on the streets. They are hardworking students, and even after graduating from college, they still want to continue learning. Sometimes, I was even surprised to learn that they themselves applied for scholarships,” Naty proudly shared.
Through diligence and perseverance, five of her children have completed their tertiary education. Nanel, who finished a diploma in Automotive, is now a supervisor in the cargo industry. Nomer, after earning a Bachelor’s degree in Education, works as a teacher for the Department of Education. Nathaniel, a graduate in Entrepreneurship, now owns a printing business. Norman, with a Bachelor of Education degree, serves as a Project Development Officer II and Municipal Link for DSWD’s 4Ps in Caramoan, Camarines Sur. Nica, a graduate in Accountancy, now works as an accountant at an international firm. Neneth, still pursuing her college education, is the SK Federation Chairperson in Sagñay, Camarines Sur, following her victory in the barangay SK elections. The youngest, Nicole, is currently in Grade 11 at Nato National High School.
Today, the family has graduated from the 4Ps program, having improved their well-being and quality of life, as reflected in the results of the Social Welfare and Development Indicator (SWDI).
Seeing her children succeed, Naty expressed her profound gratitude to DSWD, her family, and the program’s partner agencies for their unwavering support. Despite the struggles they faced, poverty did not hinder them from achieving their dreams.
“Before, it was already a joy to have an apple on our table for the New Year. Now, we don’t just have apples—we also have gifts for each other. My advice to parents like us is this: work hard, don’t rely entirely on the government for all your needs in life. We create our own destiny. Be responsible for yourself, your family, and your children. Help is there, but progress comes from our own actions.”
The Coralde family’s journey stands as a shining example of perseverance, education, and the will to rise above adversity. Through their resilience and unity, they have not only exceeded expectations but also inspired others. Their story is a powerful reminder that with determination and dedication, success is always within reach.