Miko Evanne P.
Sarento
Grp. 55 – EDM 7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
In the Philippines, poverty is most definitely rampant, and there are different sections of the country
in which are affected by it. In Cebu, I was able to become a volunteer for an activity called CES
Feeding program, and was able to extend my help and experience first-hand the circumstances of
which these people lived. During the feeding program, I was able to meet these people living in
poverty in person and was able to empathize with the elderly, the young adults, and the kids in a
place called Balay Samaritano. I realized that despite their given situation, how could they remain so
joyful and optimistic? well here’s what I learned and realized.
I learned that despite their circumstances, these people are joyful and optimistic because they are
grateful for what they have and the help they receive. They are very open and welcoming, and are
also very kind. I didn’t just learn things about them during that trip, but also learned more about
myself, and how blessed I already am by having food to eat, water to drink, a place to stay and sleep,
education, having a family that has a stable income, and many more. Just having the thought of them
living in that circumstance and still continue to remain optimistic and resilient throughout brings
sadness within my heart and at the same time a smile on my face, which led me to appreciate the
things I have today.
I also learned that there are supporters that are willing to help them, and it’s because of these
supportive people that these communities affected by poverty are able to live life a bit easier. It
taught me how essential teamwork is because there was a need for volunteers, donors, and leaders
to coordinate in organizing and executing the program. In other words, it became apparent that
there are no small roles, even the most minor tasks will be of significance in such initiatives. I have
also understood the structural factors that allow poverty to persist, including illiteracy, joblessness,
and deprivation of healthcare services.
On a personal level, it was a way of gaining perspective on the privilege i tend to forget i have. it has
pushed me to be resourceful and mindful in my daily life. Through the experience, I realized how
much I had to learn from serving others and the importance of humility. And finally, if you want
things to change, you have to do something about it yourself, and that even small acts are
meaningful too when they come together to change lives.
And finally, it gave me a greater sense of empathy; I was no longer only pitying the people we
reached but also amazed by their strength and perseverance. From the above, I heard their stories
and understood what they were going through, building a connection that helps make better
solutions.
For the Action Plan, first is Relief Giving, providing goods to extend a helping hand to the community
in poverty. Secondly, providing free education. Third, Employment Opportunities to give them an
income for better livelihood. Fourth is community development, to strengthen communities through
collective action and resources. And finally, Policy Advocacy Awareness, to address systematic
barriers to poverty reduction.
