Pandemic Projects

At the peak of the pandemic, the Philippines was put under strict lockdown which lasted for over a year. To mitigate the socio-economic impacts of the lockdown, I initiated several projects with the women leaders of the Baseco Women’s Association. I’ve also collaborated with other advocates in Ifugao and Palawan to provide support for vulnerable individuals.

Feeding Program

A total of 60 children and 12 older adults were provided lunch for 162 days (July-. I solicited donations from organizations and private individuals and turned over the amount to Mary Cris, group treasurer, weekly. Beneficiaries were selected based on the their households’ vulnerability to food insecurity. The leaders of the BWO voluntarily cooked and served the meals to the beneficiaries. After 162 days, majority of the beneficiaries were documented to have increased weight.

Educational Support

Online mode of learning became a challenge for most students in the area due to lack of proper gadgets, conducive space for learning, and gap in funds for internet connection. In collaboration with United Architects of the Philippines, tables were provided for the students. Through Dr. Angie Oropilla and Manila Achievers’ Lions Club, the organization was also able to receive a laptop and 3 tablets. Ate Marie Esmolo, President of the BWO, lent her living area as make shift study area for the students. The internet subsidy was taken from the earnings of the rice retail shop (see livelihood tab). I went to the community to teach the children and women leaders how to use the laptop.

Library and School Supplies

Several private individuals have also donated books and school supplies for the children. The books were very much welcomed by the children as access to entertainment was very low in the area. The reading space and materials provided to them partially increased the quality of their daily lives.

Medical Support

We were able to continue our annual medical mission through the help of UST Simbahayan and Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. The donated laptop has served as the community’s point of access for telehealth consultation. Through the partnership between BWO and the University of Santo Tomas, the community members can now easily access the free telehealth services provided by the UST Hospital. The community pharmacy, Klinika Tomas, remains active despite limited supplies. A portion of the income from the rice retail shop is allocated for the restocking of the free medicines that are given to community members who cannot afford to purchase OTC drugs. To support this initiative, you may message me or you may contact the organization leaders through their facebook page.

Establishing Sustainable Partnership

Through the support of Director Froilan Alipao, the Baseco Women’s Organization was finally made a formal partner of the University of Santo Tomas on October 2020. This allows the community to have access to the logistical support that the University provides to its partners. The most recent project is that of the egg retail shop.