Empowering GK Communities: Launching the first structured capability building program in Del Carmen, Siargao Island

Under the thrust of promoting community empowerment and supported by the ideals of Laudato si', Gawad Kalinga-Ateneo (GKA), in partnership with the Gawad Kalinga Builders Institute (GKBI), launched a Capability Building Program tailored for GK communities.

This program marks the first structured effort of its kind for GK communities and serves as a pilot for the North Eastern Mindanao areas. Hosted by the local government in Bayay Numancia, Del Carmen, Siargao from 18 to 19 November 2023, this initiative brought together thirty-four (34) community leaders and members from six (6) communities, despite challenging weather conditions at the time brought by a Low Pressure Area (LPA).

The determination of the participants to attend the program despite adverse weather conditions exemplified their unwavering commitment to community development. Crossing rivers from their respective islands, these dedicated community leaders demonstrated their resilience and dedication to learning and growth.

The Capability Building Program provided a platform for participants to share their experiences and learn from one another. As they exchanged insights and ideas, participants were inspired by the innovative community development programs and projects, and the heroic commitment of fellow community leaders. The workshop sessions facilitated lively discussions and fostered a spirit of camaraderie among attendees.

The GK Ateneo Team and GK Builders Institute headed by their respective Directors, Norlie Quesada Corneby and Butch Ozarraga developed the program. Together with their team members: Pevee Carandang, Paolo Inting, Clarice Enriquez, Irene Nillos from GK-Ateneo; Dale Lugue, Thess Lugue, Karen Butcon from GKBI; and the local Gawad Kalinga operations team led by Jerese Santos (Area Team Leader) and supported by Area Development Officers Alnie Espiel, Javier Bonite Jr., Emmanuel Vitor, and Laurence Lee, the 6 sessions of the first two modules of this program were delivered and facilitated ensuring interactive participation and discussion among the participants, even using the local dialect.

Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to attend the workshop, highlighting that they were taking back home not only essential skills and knowledge but also hope and inspiration to catalyze positive change in their respective communities. They valued the chance to learn from each other's community development experiences and left the program feeling inspired and empowered to continue effecting positive change in their communities. The workshop heightened the desire to share the program's knowledge, skills, and responsibilities with other members. The session on Laudato Si not only reminded them to continue and sustain the small steps and efforts they undertake in the community but also emphasized the urgency to work together and collaborate with other groups to expand the reach of caring for our common home. This extends beyond loving our nation to caring for the earth.

The success of this pilot program sets the stage for future initiatives aimed at empowering GK communities to contribute to nation-building and caring for the common home across the region.

Photos courtesy of GK-Ateneo