Masbate takes actions vs pawning of 4Ps cards

By Jordan Domingo

MASBATE CITY, Masbate --- Ten municipalities in Masbate have formed teams to probe instances of “Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino” Program (4Ps) beneficiaries engaging in illegal pawning of cash cards.

These municipalities have banned card pawning, imposing fines up to P5,000 or imprisonment of up to a year, or both, on those accepting 4Ps cards as loan collateral. Violators may also have their business permits revoked.

The towns prohibiting card pawning include Aroroy, Cataingan, Dimasalang, Cawayan, Milagros, Balud, Uson, Palanas, Esperanza, and Placer.

Aroroy’s ordinance deems government employment an aggravating circumstance, subjecting violators to prosecution under RA 6713.

Household beneficiaries misusing 4Ps cash cards may face delisting recommended to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

4Ps, a poverty reduction strategy established in 2019 through Republic Act 11310, aims to enhance health, nutrition, and education in poor households.

DSWD-Masbate Operations Office has observed a high incidence of card pawning over the past five years, warning that it could undermine program goals.

The ordinances define pawning as offering 4Ps ID cards or oaths of commitment to loan financiers or loan sharks as collateral for borrowed money or credit.

Leaders among 4Ps beneficiaries support the enforcement of penalties, displaying banners reading “We support the 4Ps Anti-Pawning Ordinance.”

Municipal social welfare officers and DSWD coordinators investigate lenders and beneficiaries. DSWD-MOP head Lara Ocharan indicates efforts to implement anti-pawning measures in 10 other Masbate towns.