In the spirit of service and education, teachers from Bataan National High School-JHS and Dr. Victoria B. Roman Memorial High School have joined forces to make a lasting difference in the lives of Indigenous Peoples (IPs) in Barangay Bangkal, Abucay, Bataan. What began as a humble effort two years ago has grown into a sustained advocacy centered on cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and a firm belief that education is for all.
The outreach program, “We Teach, We Care, We Help: One-on-One Mentoring and Feeding Program for Indigenous People,” was first initiated by Melanie Carlos and Gemma Manalo of Bataan National High School, who saw the need to support IP learners through personalized and meaningful instruction. Their initiative was soon strengthened through a partnership with Amalia Cortez of Dr. Victoria B. Roman Memorial High School, bringing together a committed team of educators devoted to inclusive education.
The program is rooted in the principles of the Indigenous People’s Education Curriculum Framework, ensuring that learning is not only accessible but also deeply connected to the students’ heritage. Through one-on-one mentoring sessions, students receive academic support that aligns with their cultural background, helping them to engage more confidently with their lessons.
What sets this program apart is its community service learning approach—a dynamic exchange where teachers and community members learn from one another. Beyond teaching, educators become learners themselves, gaining insights into indigenous practices, values, and the everyday realities of the families they serve.
Equally important is the feeding component of the program, which addresses the nutritional needs of the students. Teachers believe that no child should have to choose between being hungry and going to school. By combining educational support with nourishment, the initiative ensures that learners are mentally and physically prepared to thrive.
Held most recently on July 20, 2024, the outreach continues to grow stronger with the support of barangay officials, parents, and volunteers. It reflects a powerful model of school-community partnership—one that respects diversity, promotes inclusion, and builds a brighter future for the next generation of Indigenous learners.
As the program looks forward to its third year, it serves as a reminder that when teaching is done with heart, and learning is rooted in respect, true transformation begins.
