Disasters, both natural and man-made, often occur without warning. The Philippines has frequently experienced these devastating events, causing damage to communities, families, and individuals. The municipality of Amlan in Negros Oriental is one of these communities.

The government identified the town’s Barangay Tambojangin as a conflict-vulnerable area (CVA) in the province. In 2021, it faced another test when typhoon Odette caused flooding and extensive damage to the community, affecting their livelihoods.

These circumstances did not dampen the spirit of the residents; they continued with their lives with the help of the Department of Social Welfare and Development through the Sustainable Livelihood Program under the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA), which ensures the community benefits from the services offered by the government.

“Ang among barangay nalakip sa mga identified nga Conflict and Vulnerable Area, pero dako gyud namong pasalamat kay kung wala mo back-out ang usa ka grupo dili gyud unta mi maka-avail aning grant sa PAMANA (Our barangay is included in the identified Conflict and Vulnerable Area (CVA), but we are grateful because if a group did not back-out, we would not have been able to avail this grant from PAMANA),” narrated Josue Libo-on, the President of Bangon GK 1 Tambojangin Association.

Libo-on added that after the other group did not push through, they believed heaven had opened its doors for them. The endorsement from the local chief executive served as the light that shone upon them, and when they received the livelihood settlement grant, the group embraced it with open arms.

“Dako kaayo namong pasalamat sa among amahan sa lungsod Mayor Manuel Jose Sycip, sa LGU livelihood focal person si Sir Rolly Aguilar, sa DSWD-SLP project development officer kay nahatagan gyud mig higayon nga molambo (We are very grateful to our town Mayor Manuel Jose Sycip, to the LGU livelihood focal person, Sir Rolly Aguilar, to the DSWD-SLP project development officer for giving us the opportunity to develop),” shares Libo-on.

The association saw hope and decided to name itself after its relocation site in Bangon: Gawad Kalinga. Bangon means to get up, and just like what the participants did, they got up and rose above the challenges they encountered.

The Bangon GK 1 Tambojangin Association, composed of 32 active members, received a grant worth Php 300,000.00 in December 2022 and started their general merchandise store operation on February 10, 2023.

They put up a general merchandise store because their location is a bit far from the city center, and they sold basic needs such as rice, milk, coffee, sugar, noodles, and others. The business went well because they sold products that the people in the community needed, their market was closer, and goods sold cheaply.

Zhane Ellema, the group auditor, finds her responsibility significant. Aside from handling the finances, she assists other members and officials in processing store papers and permits. She calculated and balanced the day’s sales before handing them to the treasurer. Further, she prepares the store’s monthly financial reports.

Moreover, the group received another Php 300,000.00 from PAMANA, which they used to purchase more agricultural supplies and a chariot vehicle worth Php 117,000.00. Currently, they have two bank accounts, one for the store’s operation and the other for their savings, which they intend to use for future land purchases. Also, they managed to install WIFI, which augments the store’s income aside from using it for the CCTV system.

In 14 months, they accumulated Php 403,000 as their profit and distributed it to the members for profit sharing. Each member received varied amounts depending on the number of hours worked in the store. “Napuslan gyud ang share sa matag grupo nakatabang sa gastuhan sa pamilya (The share of each group was really useful and helped the family’s expenses),” shared Libo-on.

They have experienced significant changes since the establishment of the association. Whenever there are activities in the town, they participate in parades, and the association is recognized. Another development is their initiative to provide assistance and support for members in cases like childbirth or the death of a family member. Further, they initiated a feeding program in their daycare center and actively participated in environmental efforts like cleaning and maintaining communal gardens.

Like any group, the association also faced conflicts and disagreements due to differences in opinions and personalities. However, this strengthened their bond as they maintained their respect for each other. Their faith in God is crucial to their success.

Bangon GK1 Tambojangin Association proved that no matter what calamities or challenges may come if they have faith in God and are willing to stand up, they can face any difficulties life may give. ###

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