Somewhere in Balagtas, Bulacan is a home where darkness never lifts.
For five years, 17-year-old Ecko and his family huddled together in their shanty, living without light.
With no electricity, it was a constant struggle to study in the dim light of a lamp. Ecko would try to keep awake after a long day of school and work, being one of the many children in their community who had to work at an early age.
While studying, his mind would wander, thinking of how he could scavenge metal and junk the following day. Sometimes he’d sneak a thought about how easier it would be if he could just focus on his studies.
But as he looks over at his parents persevering in the dark, he smiles and gets back to work. His dreams of becoming a businessman, his love for his family and his faith in God keeps him going.
The COVID-19 pandemic made things even harder. Schools shifted online, and the phone credits needed to attend his classes consumed what used to be Ecko’s money for his family’s food.
But when all hope seemed lost, Pure Bayanihan came and supplied his community with food for almost an entire month.
Being a recipient of the blessing did not stop Ecko from becoming one of our first volunteers in our food distribution program in Balagtas, Bulacan. He felt a sense of pride as he saw everyone in his community helping each other out, carrying heavy packs of food to their neighbors’ homes.
His resilience and selflessness had inspired someone to donate solar-powered lamps, electric fans, power banks and a radio to his family. Ecko couldn’t contain his excitement as he turned on the lamps and saw his parents’ faces light up.
He also received school supplies to share with his siblings. It was like a huge burden lifted off his shoulders. Ecko saw a glimmer of light in the darkness, and right there and then, he knew his dreams would eventually come true.
You can be that light for someone like Ecko.
