Where It All Began

On the breezy morning of November 16, 2022, I found myself back in the Ayta Community of Maguisguis, Botolan, Zambales. Our work with Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines began here after the 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo, one of the largest volcanic eruptions of the century. Now, more than three decades later, after expanding our work to the Visayas and Mindanao, we have returned to Zambales. While we are supporting new barangays, the challenges remain the same—land insecurity, poverty, discrimination, lack of access to culture-sensitive education, poor health infrastructures, and limited political representation.

The Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 was a landmark law, yet critical questions persist: Why do Indigenous Peoples in the Philippines remain poor and vulnerable? Can we still envision a future that is safer, freer, and more just for them?

It has been 50 years for ADF. The partnerships we have built—with indigenous communities, civil society organizations, and government agencies—have been intentional, seeking to address the complex realities Indigenous Peoples face. But beyond responding to issues, these partnerships are also about recognizing strengths, fostering self-empowerment, and amplifying indigenous voices.

During this visit to Zambales, I was reminded of the enormity of the task ahead. Yes, we have seen stories of empowerment and transformation, but the work is far from over. Indigenous education, rooted in decolonial thought, challenges mainstream ideas of development, dismantles oppressive structures, and meets the needs of IP children and youth—but it is not enough. My years with ADF have taught me that this is complex work.

On November 17, I woke before sunrise to travel with Ma’am Tahing (Ayta principal of MIS), [Dot: What is MIS? – need to spell it out here] Teacher Arlene (MIS teacher), and Yuri (LPU staff) by kariton (water buffalo cart) to Sitio Patal Anawo in the morning and Sitio Kayanga in the afternoon. We met with parents, teachers, and learners—leaving at sunrise and returning at sundown. It reminded me of the circular nature of life—that the process itself is the most important part of change. No matter how much effort we put into dismantling systems of oppression, what truly matters is how it is done and by whom. Solutions must come from the marginalized; our role is simply to support and facilitate their emergence.

It has been slightly over 13 years since I first joined ADF—my first and only official job. If anyone asks me how ADF has shaped me as a development worker, my answer is simple: it taught me to be more human, to love more deeply, and to always stand with the oppressed.

Beyond the generosity of the Dee family and our sponsors, I draw strength from my colleagues, local partners, teachers, community leaders, and facilitators—those who dedicate their lives and talents for the good of their communities. Their work continues to inspire me, proving that amidst the overwhelming challenges of social justice, THERE IS HOPE.

For all of this, I am forever grateful to the Assisi Development Foundation.