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Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte-In the coastal town of Poblacion, the Escorial family rises with the sun, embodying resilience and hope in the face of poverty.

Teamwork at its finest: The Escorial family comes together to safely dock their boat and retrieve the day’s catch, eagerly awaiting their father’s return from the Celebes Sea.

Their daily routine revolves around fishing, a livelihood that not only sustains them but has also become a pathway to a brighter future.

As dawn breaks, the family gears up for a night at sea. The head of the family prepares to navigate the southern tip of Illana Bay, armed with nets, gasoline, food, and bait.

While he sets out to fish, his wife readies a rubberized plastic basin, known locally as banyera, to store their catch. This nocturnal expedition is vital, providing a variety of fish that the family supplies to markets in nearby towns like Kapatagan and Lala, Lanao del Norte.

Raising hogs is a vital source of income for the Escorial Family, showcasing their dedication to hard work and sustainable living.

Before becoming a part of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in 2009, the Escorials faced significant challenges.

Financial constraints forced their daughter, Babylyn, to pause her education for a year, prioritizing her elder brother’s studies.

“It was a tough decision, but we knew it was necessary,” she recalls. Despite the setback, Babylyn’s determination never faltered.

With the support of the 4Ps, Babylyn returned to school and graduated from Mindanao State University-Sultan Naga Dimaporo Campus.

The scholarship she received covered most of her academic needs, easing the financial burden on her parents. “I am very thankful to the government. They are very active and supportive to the poorest among the poor in society,” she expressed.

The scholarship allowed her to purchase essential academic tools, including a laptop and cellphone, and even contributed to her graduation expenses.

Now, as she awaits the results of her application for a public school teaching position, Babylyn’s aspirations have never been higher.

The Escorial family’s fishing business continues to thrive, not only improving their financial situation but also empowering their children.

They are determined to use their newfound stability to build a better future, driven by the belief that hard work and perseverance can overcome even the toughest challenges.

As the sun rises each day, the Escorials remind their community that through dedication and support, it’s possible to transform one’s life and break the cycle of poverty.

With each catch they bring to shore, they weave a story of hope, resilience, and a commitment to a better tomorrow.

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