The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 6 ((Western Visayas) is urging Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiaries, particularly pregnant women and those with children aged zero to two years, to enroll in the First 1000 Days (F1KD) program.

According to Belen Gebusion, DSWD-6 4Ps Division Chief, 7,210 eligible beneficiaries have already been validated as of March 31.

“This includes 628 pregnant women and 6,528 young children from the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo,” Gebusion said.

The F1KD program provides an additional PHP350 monthly cash grant on top of the existing PHP750 health grant given to 4Ps households.

The aim is to support proper nutrition and early childhood development during the critical first 1,000 days of a child’s life.

Gebusion noted the importance of the program and sought media support to increase awareness and participation.

She said pregnant women must undergo prenatal checkups and attend Family Development Sessions to qualify.

Beneficiaries are also reminded to submit their children’s birth certificates to their field workers for inclusion in the program. (PNA)