The Gratitude Fund – Philippines

(Island Barangays in Bohol, Visayas)

Several island barangays in Bohol, Philippines, are facing severe forms of deprivation. Life has become very difficult, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, and the 2021 super typhoon that devastated the communities. The children are most affected.

Lorebien Lagapa works at Bohol’s provincial agriculture office. Her frequent trips in three island barangays – Busalian, Talibon and Pinamgo, Bien Unido in Jao Island; and Tintinan Island in Ubay – exposed her to the impact of poverty and climate change, especially for young children and their education. 

She wanted to do more. November is the country’s National Rice Awareness month. Along with conducting rice symposia in the three barangays, she conducted supplemental feeding and distribution of school supplies and slippers for children, with funds from private donors, including The Gratitude Fund. 

While Lorebien acknowledges that these are temporary solutions, she hopes to continue finding ways where she will be able to help children become healthier and participative in schools.