A former beneficiary in Barangay Bualan, Tubod, Lanao del Norte showcases the resilience and determination of many facing life’s toughest challenges.

Arlene A. Longcob, 47 years old, has weathered storms that would have brought many to their knees, emerging not only unbroken but thriving against the odds.

Arlene’s journey began in the lush fields of Lanao del Norte, where she toiled alongside her husband in banana farming.

Their days were filled with hard work and hope for a better future.

However, fate dealt them a harsh blow when illness struck her husband, forcing him to step back from the fields and leaving Arlene as the sole provider for their three children.

Undeterred by the weight of her responsibilities, Arlene turned to entrepreneurship, venturing into the world of selling Banana Cue, Camote Cue, and Binignit in a school canteen.

Every sale was a step towards securing a future for her family, but the road was anything but easy.

In 2011, a ray of hope pierced through the clouds of hardship as their family became beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilya program.

The grants provided crucial support, easing the burden of school expenses and household needs.

With this assistance, Arlene’s determination burned brighter, and slowly but surely, their situation improved.

As her husband regained his strength and returned to work in the banana farm, Arlene expanded her endeavors, establishing a small sari-sari store.

Despite the challenges posed by competition, Arlene’s diligent planning and unwavering resolve kept their business afloat, providing an additional source of income for the family.

The fruits of Arlene’s perseverance ripened further when her eldest daughter, Irene Pearl, graduated from college with a degree in Business Administration Major in Financial Management.

Irene’s success marked a significant milestone not only for their family but for the entire community, inspiring hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on her journey, Arlene shares words of wisdom forged through hardship: “Don’t let any obstacle or failure deter you from the path to success. Fight the battles of life with courage, determination, and perseverance.”

Her resilience not only lifted her family out of poverty but also served as a beacon of hope for others in their barangay.

Despite being classified as non-Poor in Listahanan 3, Arlene’s spirit of resilience remains unwavering.

She stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and the indomitable human spirit, proving that with unwavering determination, even the toughest challenges can be overcome.

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