In a significant move to bolster health and nutrition, 1,224 pregnant women and children up to two years old from the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Antique have signed up for the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) First 1,000 Days (F1KD) program. Jeffrey Gabucay, the Antique 4Ps Provincial Link official, announced the start of the registration last month during an orientation session in Pandan on February 1, 2025.
The F1KD initiative offers an additional PHP350 monthly cash grant to eligible pregnant mothers and young children, supplementing the existing PHP750 monthly health grant provided by the 4Ps. To benefit from this program, participants must adhere to specific conditions, such as attending prenatal check-ups for pregnant women and ensuring regular health check-ups for children.
Gabucay emphasized the importance of these conditions, noting that the F1KD program is designed to support proper nutrition during the critical first 1,000 days of a child’s life, a period vital for preventing stunting and promoting healthy development. The additional funds can be utilized for purchasing food, vitamins, and other essential items.
Antique currently supports around 16,344 households under the 4Ps, highlighting the region’s commitment to improving the welfare of its most vulnerable populations.