4Ps Success Stories Series (#7) | “A Student’s Journey: A Family’s Success”
“Learning requires patience. It is a trial-and-error journey. Sometimes, one has to try a hundred times in order to get that one correct answer. Struggles and mistakes are part of life, and it is during these trying times that one must trust and believe that they are capable.”
This is how Mhylyn E. Datuin describes her path towards her goal to success as a student. A 4Ps beneficiary from Bayambang, Pangasinan, Mhylyn had always been a determined student. Ever since elementary school, she had earned the honor of being recognized as one of the top students in her class. She was a consistent honor student and had always been active in participating in various activities in school. Growing up, she knew that education was her ticket to a better future—not just for her, but for her entire family. At such a young age, she was fully conscious of the hardships that her parents encounter in supporting the family. Her mother worked hard as a vendor, and her father, a musician, did what he could to support them. His father would also work as welder in construction sites in order to bring more food on the table. Still, their income was barely enough to make ends meet.
As she transitioned from high school to college, things became more challenging. With the increasing demands of her Bachelor of Secondary Education majoring in English, Mhylyn faced difficulties not only in academics but also in other aspects of her life. “A student's journey has never been easy; there are several assignments, tests, and quizzes. It's quite difficult to balance all of your obligations as a student and a daughter.” The overwhelming pressure of her classes weighed heavily on her shoulders. ...Transportation costs and financial instability, things that a young girl should not be worrying about. Yet, despite all these trials, she never let go of her dreams. Her grades remained high, a testament to her perseverance. But every achievement felt bittersweet. She wasn’t just studying for herself—she was doing it for her family. The weight of her dreams intertwined with the hopes of her parents, and sometimes the burden felt too heavy. She also felt the need to become a role model to her younger sibling — a challenge that is not entirely hers but with her family. It was instilled in her mind that a diploma is the key in uplifting their family from being in the fringes of the society into becoming an integral and contributing part of the community.
But then came a glimmer of hope: the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program. It is a government initiative designed to provide financial assistance to low-income families, and it became a lifeline for Mhylyn’s family. The support from the program made it possible for her to stay in school, focus on her studies, and relieve some of the financial strain on her parents. The 4Ps helped cover transportation costs, school materials, and even some of the family’s basic needs. “Before we became members of the 4Ps, our allowance in school was insufficient for us. Then we were given the opportunity to become members of this program, which helped us sustain our school needs and provide additional allowance for our daily lives.” “I consider it a blessing,” Mhylyn often said. The assistance wasn’t just about money—it was a way for her to continue her education, to pursue her goals without the constant fear of having to drop out due to financial limitations. It became clear to her that the 4Ps was a gift from God, one that had paved the way for her survival.
When she finally graduated, it wasn’t just any graduation—it was a moment of triumph. Mhylyn stood proud as she received her diploma, adorned with the words "Cum Laude" beside her name, her parents, Jayson and Ronda, proudly standing beside her as she receives her recognition. It was proof that her hard work had paid off. Her sleepless nights, the sacrifices she made, and the countless exhausting days were all leading her toward something greater. But more importantly, it was proof that she had overcome the challenges life had thrown at her, with the help of the 4Ps program, her unwavering faith, and her family’s love. “Long story short,” Mhylyn would reflect, “the Lord paved the way for me to survive.”
This is a testament of a student’s journey, that with patience, perseverance and faith, triumph is possible. It is triumph that is not solely hers, however, but one that belongs to many hands that helped her along the way. The steadfast support from her family, unfaltering trust in God, and Mhylyn’s determination paved the way to realizing her dream to finish her education, and with flying colors too. Her story is emblematic of the challenges faced by many students in similar situations. Her narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and government initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. Programs like the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program not only provide financial assistance but also foster a sense of hope and possibility for future generations.
Moreover, Mhylyn’s story is an inspiration to others facing hardships. It emphasizes that struggles and mistakes are part of life’s journey and that success often requires a willingness to embrace challenges. Her mantra, “I will study hard to prove that poverty is not a hindrance to achieving your dreams,” resonates deeply with anyone striving to rise above their circumstances. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, Mhylyn embodies the hope that education can indeed be the key to breaking the cycle of poverty, not just for herself, but for her entire family. Her story is a testament to the endurance of human spirit and the belief that with hard work, dreams can be realized.
(by: Mary Anne S. Olpindo - PDO II/Municipal Link | Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program
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