Philippines Expands Cash Aid for Mothers and Young Children

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the Philippines began distributing increased cash grants to qualified beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) on July 9. The expanded First 1,000 Days (F1KD) program now provides P750 monthly, up from P350, to support maternal and child health during the critical period from conception to age two.

The initial rollout benefits 5,536 new recipients, with over 180,000 families expected to receive the higher grant throughout the year. Funds will be disbursed via Land Bank of the Philippines cash cards or registered e-wallet accounts.

The DSWD increased the grant amount after determining the previous sum was insufficient to cover rising costs for essential needs like food and medicine. Beneficiaries must continue to meet health and nutrition requirements, including regular checkups and vaccinations, to remain eligible.