Following the magnitude 7.8 earthquake and its continuing impacts on affected communities, Indigenous Peoples (IP) families from the Blaan community in Barangay Rio del Pilar, Municipality of Glan, Sarangani Province experienced significant disruptions to their daily lives, including prolonged power outages, displacement, and interruptions to agricultural and livelihood activities.
In response to these challenges, solar kits were turned over to 57 IP evacuee families through the Aid and Mobilization for Barangays Affected by Geohazards โ Indigenous Cultural Communities Project (AMBAG for ICCs), implemented by Mahintana Foundation, Inc. with funding support from the New Zealand Embassy. The intervention aims to provide immediate, practical, and community-responsive assistance to earthquake-affected Indigenous Peoples, particularly in addressing basic energy needs during displacement and recovery.
Complementing the solar kit distribution, Dole Philippines Inc. provided essential relief items, including blankets and sleeping mats, to support the immediate needs and comfort of displaced families.
The activity also demonstrated the importance of community participation and local ownership in humanitarian response. Community members actively supported the preparation and conduct of the activity, contributed local food and produce, and worked alongside partner organizations to ensure the successful implementation of the assistance.
The turnover activity commenced with a thanksgiving mass themed โGodโs Perfect Timing,โ providing an opportunity for the community to reflect on their experiences following the earthquake and express gratitude for the assistance extended by various development and government partners.
Representatives from the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) XII, Dole Philippines, Inc., Office of Civil Defense (OCD) XII, Local Government Unit of Glan, Provincial Local Government Unit of Sarangani, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Mahintana Foundation, Inc. participated in the activity alongside Blaan tribal leaders, Indigenous Peoples Mandatory Representative (IPMR), community leaders, and residents.
During the turnover, Mahintana also conducted a practical orientation and demonstration on the proper installation, operation, maintenance, safe use, and community responsibilities related to the solar kits. This component was intended to strengthen usersโ capacity to safely operate and sustain the distributed solar units beyond the immediate relief intervention.
The activity was attended by key partners and community representatives, including NCIP, representing the New Zealand Embassy, led by Municipal Tribal Chieftain Fulong Richard Tao, Dole Philippines, represented by Community Relations Supervisor Mr. Aldric Relator, LGU Glan represented by Legal and Humanitarian Assistance Officer-in-Charge Ms. Catherine Matonod, Barangay Rio del Pilar Council, led by Hon. Francisco Benitez Sr., Mahintana Foundation, Inc., led by Mr. Roel Ian Blanker and IPMR Kent James Buntang, together with Blaan tribal elders, community leaders, and residents
The initiative reflects the value of multi-sectoral collaboration, community participation, and locally responsive humanitarian assistance in supporting Indigenous Peoples and other vulnerable communities affected by disasters. Through Project AMBAG for ICCs, Mahintana Foundation and its partners continue to work toward strengthening community recovery, restoring access to essential services, and supporting affected families as they rebuild their lives following the earthquake.
