Life in a Remote Village in the Philippines

The small coastal town of Dinapigue, located in the Isabela province of the Philippines, is home to some of the poorest people in the country. Dinapigue is very rural with a small population of around 400. Due to its size and geographic location, families are struggling economically.

Many that live in Dinapigue are also part of the indigenous community, an underserved group that is often forgotten and unsupported. Two of the main occupations in the area are fishing and farming. However, as a result of the coastal location, many are vulnerable to typhoons. Severe weather makes it difficult to sustain their livelihood.

Addressing the Effect of Food Insecurity on Education

The Franciscan friars serving this area are Br. Froilan Cruz OFM and Br. Guilieros Montemor OFM. Through their ministry, they noticed that social and economic problems in Dinapigue were making it difficult for children to get a proper education. Many students were failing to attend school because they were too hungry to focus. Without the opportunity to eat before class, participation was dwindling.

The friars were inspired to create a Feeding Program for the many malnourished and less fortunate students in the elementary and high schools, in hopes that it would help them continue to pursue their education. The Feeding Program ran from February through May of 2025 and 50 malnourished students at both Dinapigue Elementary School and Dinapigue High School were served delicious meals for the duration of the campaign.

Community and Collaboration: The Heart of the Feeding Program

The friars partnered with the school leaders to set up the program and worked with a group of local food suppliers, grocery stores, and farms to source the food sustainably. They collaborated with health organizations to provide nutritional education to the children and their families.

Community members volunteered to prepare the meals at the friary kitchen. A schedule was established for meal distribution so those in more remote areas could access the meals. The program was conducted for 100 days straight, without interruption, and served as a constant support system for children and families.

The Feeding Program addressed food insecurity and malnutrition by providing regular, nutritious meals and education on healthy eating and meal preparation. It fostered a sense of community among the students and volunteers through group meals and improved the overall health, well-being, and quality of life for the students.