Solidarity in Action: The Boracay Ati Community’s Journey of Empowerment
- Splice Hub
- Oct 23
- 2 min read
We would not be where we are today without the individuals and organizations that have journeyed with us through the years. You, the Assisi Development Foundation, are among those who have stood by us, and for that, we extend our deepest and endless gratitude—especially to Ma’am Viel and Sir Ben.
For over a decade, you have walked with us, strengthening our resolve to dream not just for ourselves but for our entire community. Through your support, we claimed our ancestral domain and stood up for our rights. You helped shape our leaders into more open, empowered, and service-driven individuals, deeply committed to our people. Your presence has broadened our perspective while keeping us rooted in our culture and identity. Because of these encounters, we have come to recognize our own strength—something we now carry as we continue the fight against oppression, not only for ourselves but for all Indigenous Peoples.
Beyond advocacy, you have provided practical support to improve our lives. You helped us build our homes and our Bihasin (Living Heritage Center), a space where we preserve and share our culture. You have remained by our side, guiding our plans and aspirations. Most importantly, you have never abandoned our children, continuing to provide educational assistance to junior and senior high school students. Last year, you extended this support to five of our youth in college—an incredible help not just for them but for their families. With the guidance of the DC sisters, this opportunity has also taught them financial responsibility and a deeper sense of community service.
But above all these, we cherish the friendship and genuine partnership we have built with your kind and dedicated servant-leaders, who treat us as family. As we continue our #LabanNaMayDangal, your support strengthens our resolve to embrace our identity and fight for justice with dignity and fairness.
While we may not be able to repay all the kindness you have shown us, we hope our lives and our community will serve as living testaments to your sacrifices and love. We are committed to sharing what we have learned and passing on to future generations the appreciation of our origins, culture, and indigenous knowledge—because that is what you have instilled in us.
It is said that those who give without expecting anything in return are blessed abundantly. For this, we pray that ADFI, its members, and its local and international partners receive the fullness of God’s blessings. May you always find the strength and inspiration to continue your mission of journeying with Indigenous Peoples and all creation.
