“Ang pagiging leader sa community ay parang pagiging isang politiko, hinihingan ka ng mga tao (Being a leader in the community is like being a politician, people asked assistance from you),” shared Ma. Georgia Dollesin, 45, parent leader.

A grant of Php500 monthly allowance will be given to the 520 parent leaders of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries of San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan in recognition of their relentless efforts and sacrifices, sponsored by the local government unit (LGU) of the town, effective January 15, 2016. The provision was an ordinance, not just a mere executive order, which will be continued despite the change of political frontrunners.

“I believe that for a start that’s just 500, but eventually it is subject for increase,” said Ladisla Felices, City Social Welfare and Development Officer.

These Parent Leaders are the front liners and the bridge voicing out the concerns of the community to its LGU. They also played an important role in the maintenance of the interest of the Pantawid members especially to Family Development Session (FDS); they are the associates of the City Links.

The incentive allowance was intended to fill in the communication and travel expenses of the Parent Leaders. Yet, they see it as an additional financial assistance that they may share to others members who are in need of financial aid.

“Masaya talaga ako dahil kahit hindi ko hinihinging ibalik ang mga nagagastos o naibibigay ay magkakaroon kami ng ekstrang pwedeng iabot sa panahon na may nangailangan (I am really happy for though we are no asking that what we have given should be return, we are going to have extra money to offer when somebody needs it),” said Ms. Dollesin. ### (Andyleen C. Feje)