Overview
An Affidavit of Loss for a 4Ps ATM Card is a sworn written statement used when a beneficiary of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, commonly called 4Ps, loses the ATM card used to receive cash grants from the government.
In the Philippines, a 4Ps ATM card is not merely an ordinary bank card. It is connected to a government social assistance program and is commonly used to withdraw conditional cash transfer benefits. Because of this, losing the card should be addressed promptly, carefully, and with proper documentation.
An Affidavit of Loss is usually required by the bank, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the local City or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office, or the 4Ps City or Municipal Link before a replacement card may be processed.
What Is an Affidavit of Loss?
An Affidavit of Loss is a notarized document where a person formally declares, under oath, that a certain item was lost. It states the facts surrounding the loss, the identity of the owner, and the purpose for executing the affidavit.
For a lost 4Ps ATM card, the affidavit usually declares that:
The person is a 4Ps beneficiary or authorized grantee. The ATM card was issued in connection with the 4Ps program. The card was lost despite diligent efforts to find it. The card has not been sold, transferred, pledged, surrendered, or intentionally disposed of. The affidavit is being executed to request replacement and to protect the beneficiary from possible misuse of the lost card.
Because it is sworn before a notary public, an Affidavit of Loss carries legal weight. Making false statements in the affidavit may expose the person to liability for perjury or other offenses.
Purpose of the Affidavit
The main purpose of an Affidavit of Loss for a 4Ps ATM card is to create a formal record that the card is no longer in the possession of the beneficiary.
It may be used for several practical and legal purposes:
First, it helps prove to the bank or government office that the card was genuinely lost. Second, it supports the request for a replacement ATM card. Third, it helps protect the beneficiary in case another person finds and misuses the card. Fourth, it allows the bank or concerned office to block, deactivate, or replace the lost card according to its procedure. Finally, it serves as a written declaration that the beneficiary is not attempting to obtain multiple cards or duplicate access to program funds.
Importance in the 4Ps Context
The 4Ps program provides cash grants to qualified households, subject to program rules and conditions. Since the ATM card is often the means by which grants are accessed, losing it can delay withdrawals and create anxiety for the household.
A lost 4Ps ATM card may result in several problems. The beneficiary may be unable to withdraw assistance. The card may be used by someone else if the PIN is known or written near the card. The account may need to be temporarily blocked. Replacement may require coordination between the beneficiary, bank, DSWD personnel, and local government offices.
For this reason, the loss should not be ignored. The beneficiary should act quickly to report the matter and secure the required documents.
Who May Execute the Affidavit?
The affidavit should generally be executed by the registered 4Ps grantee or beneficiary whose name appears in the program records or whose name is associated with the ATM card or cash card account.
In many 4Ps households, the grantee is often the mother or designated household representative. The person executing the affidavit must be the same person who has legal or program authority over the card, unless there is a valid reason why another person is acting on their behalf.
If the registered grantee is elderly, illiterate, physically unable to appear, or otherwise incapacitated, the concerned office may require additional documents, such as authorization, proof of relationship, identification documents, or other supporting papers. Requirements may vary depending on the bank branch, local DSWD office, or municipal link.
Essential Contents of the Affidavit
A proper Affidavit of Loss for a 4Ps ATM card should contain the following information:
1. Title
The document should be clearly titled:
Affidavit of Loss
A more specific title may also be used:
Affidavit of Loss of 4Ps ATM Card
2. Personal Information of the Affiant
The affiant is the person making the sworn statement. The affidavit should include the affiant’s full name, age, civil status, citizenship, and complete address.
Example:
“I, Maria Santos, of legal age, Filipino, married, and a resident of Barangay San Isidro, Municipality of Santa Cruz, Province of Laguna, after having been duly sworn in accordance with law, hereby depose and state…”
3. Status as 4Ps Beneficiary
The affidavit should state that the affiant is a beneficiary or grantee of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program.
Example:
“That I am a registered beneficiary/grantee of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, also known as 4Ps.”
4. Description of the Lost Card
The affidavit should describe the lost card as specifically as possible without exposing sensitive information.
It may include the issuing bank, type of card, name appearing on the card, and purpose of the card. It is generally safer not to write the full ATM account number or full card number unless specifically required. If needed, only the last few digits may be included.
Example:
“That I was issued a 4Ps ATM/cash card by Land Bank of the Philippines for the purpose of receiving my 4Ps cash grants.”
5. Circumstances of the Loss
The affidavit should explain when, where, and how the card was lost, if known. If the exact details are unknown, the affiant may state the approximate date or the last time the card was seen.
Example:
“That sometime on or about March 15, 2026, I discovered that my said ATM card was missing from my wallet after I returned home from the public market.”
6. Efforts to Find the Card
The affidavit should state that the affiant made efforts to locate the card but failed.
Example:
“That despite diligent search and efforts to locate the said ATM card, I could no longer find the same.”
7. Statement That the Card Was Not Sold or Transferred
This is especially useful in the 4Ps context because program benefits are personal to the qualified household and should not be sold, transferred, or misused.
Example:
“That the said ATM card was not sold, transferred, pledged, surrendered, or given to any other person.”
8. Request for Replacement
The affidavit should state the purpose of execution.
Example:
“That I am executing this Affidavit of Loss to attest to the truth of the foregoing facts and to request the replacement of my lost 4Ps ATM card.”
9. Notarial Section
The affidavit must be signed before a notary public. The notarial portion usually includes the place and date of notarization, the competent evidence of identity presented, the notary’s signature, notarial seal, commission details, roll number, PTR number, IBP number, and document book/page details.
Sample Affidavit of Loss for 4Ps ATM Card
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES PROVINCE OF ____________ CITY/MUNICIPALITY OF ____________ S.S.
AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS
I, ____________________________, of legal age, Filipino, civil status ____________, and a resident of ____________________________________________, after having been duly sworn in accordance with law, hereby depose and state:
That I am a registered beneficiary/grantee of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, commonly known as 4Ps;
That in connection with my 4Ps benefits, I was issued a 4Ps ATM/cash card by ____________________________ Bank, which I use to receive and withdraw my 4Ps cash grants;
That sometime on or about ____________________________, I discovered that my said 4Ps ATM/cash card was missing;
That I believe the said ATM/cash card was lost at or near ____________________________________________, or at some place unknown to me;
That despite diligent search and efforts to locate the said ATM/cash card, I could no longer find the same;
That the said ATM/cash card was not sold, transferred, pledged, surrendered, or given by me to any other person;
That to the best of my knowledge, no unauthorized person has been given permission by me to use the said ATM/cash card;
That I am executing this Affidavit of Loss to attest to the truth of the foregoing facts, to report the loss of my 4Ps ATM/cash card, and to request the issuance of a replacement card, as may be required by the concerned bank, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, or other proper office.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this ___ day of ___________, 20, in ____________________________, Philippines.
Affiant
SUBSCRIBED AND SWORN to before me this ___ day of ___________, 20, in ____________________________, Philippines, affiant exhibiting to me competent evidence of identity by way of ____________________________ issued on __________________ at __________________.
Doc. No. _____; Page No. _____; Book No. __; Series of 20.
Documents Commonly Needed
The exact requirements may vary, but the beneficiary may be asked to present:
A valid government-issued ID or other accepted identification document. The 4Ps beneficiary ID, family development session records, or program-related proof, if available. A photocopy of the lost card, if the beneficiary has one. A police report, if required by the bank or local office, especially where theft or fraud is suspected. The notarized Affidavit of Loss. Other forms required by the bank or DSWD field office.
For many beneficiaries, the most common supporting documents are the affidavit, valid ID, and 4Ps-related identification or verification from the local 4Ps office.
Where to Submit the Affidavit
The affidavit may be submitted to one or more of the following, depending on the procedure in the locality:
The bank that issued the 4Ps ATM card, commonly Land Bank of the Philippines or another authorized financial service provider. The 4Ps City or Municipal Link. The City or Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office. The DSWD Field Office or local 4Ps office. The barangay office, if local certification or assistance is needed.
Beneficiaries should keep photocopies or clear photos of all documents submitted.
Steps After Losing a 4Ps ATM Card
The beneficiary should first check whether the card is truly lost and search likely places such as the home, wallet, bag, barangay hall, payment site, market, or transport vehicle.
Once the card appears to be lost, the beneficiary should report the loss immediately to the bank or concerned 4Ps office. If there is a risk that another person knows the PIN, the beneficiary should request that the card or account access be blocked or protected.
The beneficiary should then prepare an Affidavit of Loss and have it notarized. After notarization, the affidavit should be submitted together with the required identification documents. The beneficiary may then follow the replacement procedure, which may include filling out bank forms, appearing personally, waiting for card production, or receiving instructions from the 4Ps municipal link.
Notarization Requirement
An Affidavit of Loss must usually be notarized to be accepted as an official sworn document. Notarization converts the private document into a public document and confirms that the affiant personally appeared before the notary and swore to the truth of the statements.
The affiant must bring valid identification. The notary public may refuse notarization if the affiant has no proper identification, does not understand the document, is not personally present, or appears to be signing against their will.
For beneficiaries who cannot read or write, the contents should be explained in a language or dialect they understand. The document may be signed by thumbmark if allowed, with proper witnesses and notarial safeguards.
Legal Effect of the Affidavit
The affidavit does not automatically replace the ATM card. It is a supporting legal document. The actual replacement still depends on the rules of the bank, DSWD, or authorized payment provider.
The affidavit also does not erase liability for false claims. If the card was not actually lost, or if the beneficiary falsely claims loss to obtain another card, the affidavit may become evidence of misrepresentation.
The affidavit likewise does not guarantee immediate release of funds. Processing time depends on verification, card availability, account status, and the procedures of the concerned offices.
False Statements and Possible Liability
Because the affidavit is sworn under oath, the affiant must be truthful. False declarations may create legal consequences.
A person should not state that the card was lost if it was actually sold, lent, pawned, entrusted to another person, or intentionally surrendered. A person should not deny that another person used the card if they knowingly allowed that person to withdraw benefits. A person should not use the affidavit to conceal unauthorized withdrawals or violations of program rules.
In addition to possible criminal exposure for false statements, the beneficiary may face administrative consequences under program rules if the loss involves misuse, transfer, fraud, or misrepresentation.
Lost Card Versus Stolen Card
A lost card and a stolen card are related but not identical.
A lost card means the beneficiary misplaced it or cannot locate it, without necessarily knowing that another person took it.
A stolen card means another person took it without permission. If theft is suspected, the beneficiary may need to report the matter to the police and secure a police report, especially if there are unauthorized withdrawals.
The affidavit should be accurate. If the card was stolen, it may be better to state that it was stolen or unlawfully taken, rather than simply lost. However, if the beneficiary is unsure, the affidavit may state that the card is missing and cannot be found.
What to Do if the PIN Was Also Compromised
If the beneficiary wrote the PIN on the card, kept the PIN with the card, told the PIN to another person, or suspects that someone knows the PIN, this should be treated urgently.
The beneficiary should immediately report the matter to the bank or authorized payment provider and request blocking or other protective action. The beneficiary should also inform the 4Ps municipal link or concerned DSWD personnel. If withdrawals were made without authority, the beneficiary should ask what complaint, report, or investigation process is available.
The affidavit may mention that the card was lost, but sensitive PIN details should not be written unnecessarily. The PIN should never be included in the affidavit.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is executing an affidavit with vague or incomplete details. The affidavit should state the approximate date of loss, the type of card, and the purpose of the affidavit.
Another mistake is using a generic Affidavit of Loss that does not mention 4Ps. While a generic form may still be accepted, it is better to specifically identify the card as a 4Ps ATM or cash card.
A third mistake is failing to report the loss promptly. Delay may create problems if the card is misused.
A fourth mistake is including too much sensitive information, such as the full ATM card number, full account number, or PIN. The affidavit should identify the card sufficiently without exposing unnecessary financial details.
A fifth mistake is assuming that notarization alone completes the replacement process. The beneficiary must still comply with bank and DSWD requirements.
Cost of an Affidavit of Loss
The cost depends on the notary public and location. Some notaries charge modest fees, while fees may be higher in commercial areas. In some instances, public attorney offices, local government offices, or legal aid providers may assist qualified indigent individuals.
A 4Ps beneficiary who cannot afford private notarization may inquire with the Public Attorney’s Office, local legal aid programs, barangay officials, or the city or municipal social welfare office for possible assistance. Availability of free or reduced-cost services depends on local practice and qualification requirements.
Language of the Affidavit
The affidavit may be written in English, Filipino, or another language understood by the affiant and acceptable to the notary or receiving office. In practice, many affidavits in the Philippines are written in English because banks and government offices commonly accept English legal forms.
However, the affiant must understand what they are signing. If the beneficiary is more comfortable in Filipino or a local language, the document should be explained clearly before signing.
Affidavit by Thumbmark
Some 4Ps beneficiaries may be unable to sign their name. In such cases, a thumbmark may be used, subject to the requirements of the notary public. The notary may require witnesses and proper identification. The document should reflect that the contents were explained to the affiant and that the affiant voluntarily executed the document.
Replacement of the 4Ps ATM Card
The replacement process is administrative and may involve both the bank and DSWD-related offices. The affidavit is only one requirement. The beneficiary may be asked to accomplish bank forms, submit identification, undergo verification, and wait for the replacement card.
During the waiting period, the beneficiary should ask how future grants will be received, whether withdrawals are temporarily suspended, whether over-the-counter withdrawal is available, and whether any schedule must be followed.
The beneficiary should also ask whether the lost card has been blocked. Blocking the old card is important to prevent unauthorized use.
Unauthorized Withdrawals
If money was withdrawn from the account after the card was lost, the beneficiary should immediately report the matter. The report should be made to the bank and the appropriate 4Ps or DSWD office.
The beneficiary may need to provide an affidavit, police report, transaction details, account information, and any available evidence. The bank may investigate based on its rules and electronic banking procedures. The beneficiary should request written acknowledgment or a reference number for the complaint whenever possible.
An Affidavit of Loss alone may not be enough to recover withdrawn funds. Recovery depends on the circumstances, timing of the report, bank rules, evidence of unauthorized access, and other relevant facts.
Barangay Certification
Some local offices may ask for a barangay certification, especially if the beneficiary has limited identification documents or needs local confirmation of residence. A barangay certification is different from an Affidavit of Loss.
A barangay certification may support identity or residency, but it usually does not replace a notarized affidavit unless the receiving office expressly accepts it. The safer approach is to prepare the affidavit and comply with any additional local requirements.
Practical Tips for Beneficiaries
A beneficiary should keep the ATM card separate from any written PIN. The PIN should be memorized and never shared. The beneficiary should avoid giving the card to neighbors, relatives, lenders, store owners, or other persons. The card should not be used as collateral for loans.
The beneficiary should keep a photocopy or photo of the card, but sensitive numbers should be protected. Copies of affidavits, bank forms, and reports should be kept in a safe place. When communicating with offices, the beneficiary should record the date, name of the person spoken to, and instructions given.
Legal Nature of the 4Ps ATM Card
The 4Ps ATM card is a means of accessing government cash grants. It is not property that should be sold, pawned, lent, or transferred. The benefits are intended for the qualified household and should be used according to the objectives of the program, especially for health, education, nutrition, and family welfare.
Misuse of the card may affect the household’s access to benefits and may trigger verification or investigation. The beneficiary should treat the card as an important financial and government-issued instrument.
When a Simple Affidavit May Not Be Enough
A simple Affidavit of Loss may be insufficient where there is suspected theft, fraud, unauthorized withdrawal, identity dispute, family conflict, duplicate claim, or mismatch between the person appearing and the registered grantee.
In such cases, the bank or DSWD office may require more documents. These may include a police report, authorization, proof of relationship, certificate of residency, valid IDs, program verification, incident report, or personal appearance of the registered grantee.
Special Situations
If the Grantee Has Died
If the registered 4Ps grantee has died, a simple Affidavit of Loss by a relative may not be enough. The household may need to coordinate with the 4Ps municipal link or DSWD office for updating of household records, replacement of grantee, or other program procedures. A death certificate and other documents may be required.
If the Grantee Is Abroad
If the registered grantee is abroad, replacement may be more complicated. The bank or office may require a special power of attorney, consularized or apostilled documents, valid identification, and proof that the representative is authorized to act.
If the Card Was Taken by a Relative
If a family member took the card and refuses to return it, the issue may involve more than simple loss. The beneficiary should report the matter to the 4Ps municipal link, the bank, and, if necessary, barangay or police authorities. The affidavit should not falsely state that the card was merely misplaced if the beneficiary knows who took it.
If the Card Was Pawned or Used as Collateral
If the card was pawned, pledged, or given as security for debt, the beneficiary should not claim in an affidavit that it was lost. Such a false statement may create legal consequences. The beneficiary should seek assistance from the proper social welfare office or legal aid provider to address the situation honestly.
Suggested Wording for Key Clauses
A strong affidavit may include the following clauses:
Beneficiary clause: “That I am a registered beneficiary/grantee of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, commonly known as 4Ps.”
Card clause: “That I was issued a 4Ps ATM/cash card by the authorized bank/payment provider for the purpose of receiving my 4Ps cash grants.”
Loss clause: “That sometime on or about ____________, I discovered that the said ATM/cash card was missing and could no longer be found.”
Diligent search clause: “That despite diligent efforts to search for the same, I failed to locate the said ATM/cash card.”
Non-transfer clause: “That the said ATM/cash card was not sold, transferred, pledged, surrendered, or voluntarily given by me to any other person.”
Purpose clause: “That I am executing this affidavit to report the loss and to request the replacement of my 4Ps ATM/cash card.”
Best Form of the Affidavit
The best form is one that is truthful, specific, concise, and acceptable to the receiving office. It should not exaggerate or invent facts. It should avoid unnecessary sensitive banking details. It should be signed only after the affiant fully understands its contents.
The affidavit should be printed clearly, signed before a notary public, and supported by valid identification. The beneficiary should bring multiple photocopies because different offices may require their own copies.
Conclusion
An Affidavit of Loss for a 4Ps ATM card is an important legal and administrative document in the Philippines. It helps a 4Ps beneficiary formally report the loss of the card, request replacement, and protect against possible misuse. Because the card is connected to government cash grants, the beneficiary should act promptly, report the loss to the proper office, secure a notarized affidavit, and follow the replacement procedure required by the bank and DSWD-related authorities.
The affidavit must be truthful. It should clearly state the beneficiary’s identity, the nature of the lost 4Ps ATM card, the circumstances of the loss, the efforts made to find it, and the purpose of requesting replacement. A properly prepared affidavit can help avoid delays and establish a clear written record of the loss.