The Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program (4P’s) is the government’s anti-poverty initiative aimed at improving the living conditions of the Filipino families particularly in health and education. However, there have been issues arise concerning cash card pawning among beneficiaries. This study explored the experiences of 4Ps beneficiaries who pawned their cash card grant in the municipality of Island Garden City of Samal,  to understand the reasons influencing their decisions, coping strategies and reflections. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, data were gathered through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 17 participants to gain a deeper understanding of their lived experiences.  The findings revealed six major reasons for cash card pawning: Health crises, educational expenses, livelihood instability, shocks and disasters, and debt cycles trap beneficiaries. Participants coped through alternative livelihood and subsistence strategies, borrowing and debt management, and budgeting and education-first priorities. Their reflections reflected into four themes: responsible stewardship, debt erodes the cash grant, practice discipline and daily budgeting, value the program and seek improvements. The study highlights the need for policy makers and social workers to strengthen social protection through enhanced financial literacy, health insurance coverage and livelihood support for sustainable well-being among low-income families.