This project is made possible by the generous support of our partners at Uma Nota Manila.
In the bustling heart of Taguig, where dreams often collide with harsh realities, 15 families stand at the precipice of change. As illegal settlers, these residents scramble to find footing as their homes are now marked for demolition to make way for the South Commuter Railway Project. As the shadow of relocation looms, these families face an uncertain future, their hearts heavy with worry and their spirits tested by circumstance.
The Uprooting of Lives
Relocation isn’t just about changing addresses; it’s about uprooting lives, severing community ties, and facing the daunting task of rebuilding livelihoods from scratch. For many, like Lourdes, a single mother struggling to support her children, or Teresita, a grandmother holding her family together, the thought of starting over is overwhelming. They face not only the loss of their homes but also access to the livelihoods they’ve built.
If we’re forced to leave, then we don’t really have a choice. We need to relocate even if it’s difficult,” says Lourdes.
Each family’s story is a tapestry of hardship and resilience. Maricel, a mother of nine, grapples with the daily challenge of making ends meet. Lucina and her husband, both seniors, battle health issues while trying to maintain their junkshop business. Maria Luz, dependent on her children, saw her modest carwash business vanish in the wake of the demolition. These are not just statistics; they are lives hanging in the balance, dreams teetering on the edge of despair.
A Lifeline of Hope
When vulnerable communities face seemingly insurmountable challenges, innovative partnerships can spark real change. The Strengthening the Transition of Vulnerable Communities (STVC) project collaborates with Pure Bayanihan to create lasting change. With vital support from Uma Nota Manila, a local restaurant in BGC, Taguig that is invested in its community, they offer more than just aid—they provided a lifeline. The impact is immediate and profound. Families who once felt powerless now see paths to financial stability and independence.
“This livelihood from Pure Bayanihan is a big help to our family because then we will have the means to earn enough for our daily expenses,” uttered by Marites.
Pure Bayanihan’s intervention is tailored to each family’s unique needs and aspirations. Eva receives capital to diversify her store’s offerings. Lucina gets the sewing machine she needs to revive her tailoring dreams. Maricel finds support to start a sari-sari store and enhance her nail care business. Each contribution, though seemingly small, is a giant leap towards self-sufficiency and dignity for these families.
As we witness the transformation of these 15 families, we’re reminded of the power of community and compassion and the impact of targeted, thoughtful assistance. But the story doesn’t end here. There are countless more families in Taguig and beyond who face similar challenges.
This is where you come in
Your support can be the catalyst for change in the lives of these families. Donate now and become our partner through a recurring giving commitment or sponsor our next projects. Join us in building a future where no family faces relocation alone, where every individual has the tools to rebuild and thrive.
Together, we can turn the tide of adversity and create a wave of positive change that ripples through communities for generations to come.
