Recently, I had the opportunity to join a Rotary Luntiang Manila Prime project that brought us to a remote area in Obando, Bulacan. While it’s not technically an island, the area was completely surrounded by water due to the high tide, making it accessible only by boat.
Upon arriving, I was surprised by how normal everything seemed despite the flooding. Life went on as usual – vegetable vendors lined the streets, sari-sari stores were open, and local eateries (carinderias) were busy serving customers.
The outreach was a joint effort by Rotary Luntiang Maynila Prime and the Regis Foundation. We distributed over a hundred school bags filled with complete sets of school supplies to students from Grade 1 to Grade 6. We also donated multivitamins to help support the children’s health and nutrition.
It was an eye-opening experience. It gave me a deeper understanding of how communities adapt to their circumstances and continue to thrive, even in challenging environments. I’m grateful to have been part of a project that not only brought aid but also allowed me to witness the strength and perseverance of others.
