Bringing access to these vital developmental services to far-flung areas.
In celebration of the National Indigenous Peoples Month in the Philippines last October, a partnership betwern the Friends of Saint Mary MacKillop, Inc. (FSMMI), the Barangay Local Government Unit of Paranglumba in Zamboanga Del Norte and Tulong Lasalyano— the social action arm of De La Salle Brothers, Inc. (DLSBI)—was formed.
Together, they launched the Kiddie Star Program with the theme “Sustansya, Talino, Aral at Respeto,” which emphasizes nourishment, intellectual development, learning and respect.
The initiative is bringing to young Subanen children Sitio Tulohon in Barangay Paranglumba the safe and nurturing environment where they can learn, play, develop essential skills and receive nutritious meals.
It is done through the establishment of a daycare center and the provision of feeding services, which aims to support children’s holistic development and also recognize their cultural identity and heritage.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and build a better future, regardless of their circumstances or the community they come from,” said Fr. Dean Bongat, founder and CEO of FSMMI, who noted the that program aims to lay the foundation for a future in which Indigenous children, particularly those from the Subanen community, can access quality early childhood education, proper nutrition and an environment that nurtures their dignity and potential.
FSMMI is a nonprofit organization that works to expand access to education for Indigenous and economically disadvantaged children and youth, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.
The organization was inspired by the legacy of Saint Mary MacKillop and seeks to bring education, nourishment and opportunities closer to children who need them most.
He added, “As we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month, may we continue to recognize the richness of Indigenous cultures and strengthen our commitment to ensuring that no child is left behind.”
Meanwhile, Rey Anugon, president of FSMMI, described the launch as a step toward ensuring that Subanen children have opportunities to develop their potential in an environment that respects their cultural identity.
“We believe that every child deserves access to education, proper nutrition and a nurturing environment where their potential can be developed and their cultural identity respected,” Anugon said.
For his part, Timuay Labi Johnny Anugon Sr., tribal chieftain and Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative, expressed gratitude to FSMMI and its partners.
“The Kiddie Star Program is a meaningful opportunity for our Subanen children to learn, grow and build a brighter future. May this partnership continue to bring hope and lasting benefits to our community,” he said.
Iris Joy Tayag, director of the Social Action Unit of DLSBI, said collaboration among community members and institutions is essential to expanding access to education and food.
“With all of you, we will make access to food and education a way to help the youth truly become the hope of our nation,” she said after affirmed commitment to the village.
FSMMI also recognized the contributions of Krizzhia Loren Rosero, program lead of the DLSBI Social Action Unit, and thanked the Local Government Unit of Siayan, community volunteers, parents and families, and social work interns from Saint Joseph College of Sindangan, Inc.
The organization likewise acknowledged the Tribal Council of Elders of the Siayan Subanen Ancestral Domain for its support and participation.
Paranglumba Barangay Chairman Alfredo Lusay Sr. also called the program an answered prayer for the community and expressed hope that the partnership would bring lasting benefits to future generations.
“This partnership gives us renewed hope that our children will have better access to education, proper nutrition and a brighter future,” Lusay said.
