Last February, a first-year sociology student from Don Honorio Ventura State University (DHVSU) approached me, seeking my opinion on a community program as part of their CWTS subject. Recalling that I had the contact details of the SK secretary of Bancal Pugad from a prior meeting, I suggested directing their program to Bancal Pugad, a coastal barangay in Lubao, Pampanga. Having visited there in 2022, I knew the journey would be challenging, requiring a 30-minute off-road ride followed by a 15-minute boat journey. Lubao, where I reside, is predominantly agricultural with some coastal barangays, Bancal Pugad being one of them.

Following contact with the LGU of Bancal Pugad, particularly their Sangguniang Kabataan Council, we arranged an online meeting. Subsequently, it was decided that DHVSU students would conduct an ocular visit to familiarize themselves with the community and consult locals. Based on their findings, the students opted to provide school supplies to over 100 elementary students of Bancal Pugad Integrated School. However, complications arose when their professor abruptly withdrew support. Despite this setback, the students, committed to their cause, decided to proceed independently, funding the program themselves without expecting academic credit.

On April 22, 2024, the distribution day arrived. Set to depart at 9 AM, delays ensued due to an emergency, causing a one-hour delay. The route to Bancal Pugad paralleled that of Bamboo Hub, Lubao’s primary tourist destination, with a rare turn leading to the coastal barangay. Initially paved, the road transitioned into rugged terrain, mitigated somewhat by our air-conditioned van. Arriving at Bancal Sinubli, a neighboring coastal barangay, we embarked on our boat journey, lacking the stabilizing “katig” bamboo attachments. Passing through mangrove-rich areas, indicative of the community’s reliance on fishing, we finally reached Bancal Pugad, warmly greeted by locals.

Proceeding to Bancal Pugad Integrated School, we commenced started the distribution after brief introductions and a moment to recuperate from the journey. Strategically dividing into smaller groups to expedite the process, I and fellow Suli volunteers were tasked with distributing supplies to grade 1 students. Welcomed by adorable “Mabuhay” messages from the eager students, their excitement was palpable. Post-distribution, we conversed with a teacher regarding students’ reading proficiency, a concern mirrored nationwide.

Before departing, we visited the office of the school head to learn more about the community and school dynamics. Surprisingly, the school head revealed a decline in student population due to successful family planning efforts, a revelation both shocking and heartening.

As we left Bancal Pugad behind, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of satisfaction. Despite the hurdles, seeing the smiles on the students’ faces made it all worth it. It was a reminder of the difference even small acts of kindness can make. As we drove away, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. Our brief visit may be over, but its impact will linger, a testament to the power of collective action. And as we continue our journey, I’m confident that our efforts will contribute to a brighter future for all.