In the Philippines, Caritas Australia and its partners are working to improve outcomes for indigenous minorities through improved access to education, employment, and healthcare.
Shirley is a 36-year-old Manide indigenous woman living in the remote Camarines Norte province in the Philippines. She is the mother of four and the family’s sole breadwinner, as her husband is sick – but Shirley was struggling to support the whole family and keep her children in school.
Indigenous minorities in the Philippines face regular discrimination and disadvantage that limits their access to education, employment and healthcare. Despite being a middle-income country, about 2.8 million children do not go to school.
Unequal access to health services affects indigenous children and family’s access to basic medical care. Preventable diseases such as tuberculosis, dengue fever and measles are common in Manide communities, and there is a high maternal and newborn mortality.
With the support of Caritas Australia, Shirley trained to become an indigenous health worker and her life has transformed. In partnership with the Socio Pastoral Action Centre Foundation Inc (SPACFI), this programme strengthens the capacity of indigenous people to lead lives of dignity, grow in self-esteem and attain sustainable livelihoods.
Shirley is now leading her community to take a stand against discrimination, improve health and education, and pave the way for a better future. She recently took over her father’s role as tribal chieftain, and represents her people on the Municipal Health Board.
Not only has she improved her own life, she is leading her community to create change for future generations.
“I became the voice of my tribe to have their needs heard.” Shirley told Caritas.
“As a trained health worker, I am confident to talk, to mingle with non-indigenous people, even with government employees.”
Although there is a long way to go before improved employment opportunities and reduced discrimination for the Manide tribe, Shirley believes they will reach the goal together.
“I am proud of what I’ve done for my tribe,” Shirley expressed.
“My dream is to be able to provide for my kids and [for them to] finish their studies… I am so happy and grateful for all the help of Caritas Australia. I hope and pray to continue their assistance, particularly to the needs of indigenous people.”
Your support is life saving for people experiencing poverty and oppression. Please help more people like Shirley gain confidence and respect within their community, and help improve the conditions of indigenous people’s around the world.
To donate to Project Compassion, visit Caritas Australia’s website: www.caritas.org.au/projectcompassion or call 1800 024 413.