The immersion revealed how genuinely warm, resilient, and welcoming the Ovu-Manobo community is. Even in the face of unexpected events, they continue to show kindness and hospitality, making visitors feel like part of their circle. Their deep sense of unity is seen in how they support one another, share what little they have, and maintain harmony through mutual respect. It was inspiring to witness how connection and compassion guide their daily lives, reminding us that strength often comes from community, not just individuality.
CALAYO, FRANZEL KAYE E. | The Culture of Hard Work
Trying “tapping” taught me the skill, patience, and physical effort required for their hard work, deepening my appreciation for their resilience. This experience made me realize that to truly understand people, we must immerse ourselves in their culture and daily lives.
CATAGUE, KRISTINE | The Value of Preservation Witnessing the fragility of their healing traditions and cultural knowledge emphasized the need for preservation. I was moved by their unwavering faith and simple life, which prove that inner peace comes from strong values.
The bond we built was pure and genuine, something money could never buy, making the memories deeply cherished. It reminded me that even in this cruel and noisy world, peace can be found with people we never expected to become part of your lives.
HERRERA, IVY JANE L. | Trust in the Lord
I learned how they keep surviving even if they have a little, showing they have great hope because they trust in the Lord no matter how great the trials of life are. I have great respect for them and for their tribe, the Obo-Manuvu.
MAMBALING, CRIS HAROLD T. | Strength in Community The Obo Manobo people taught me lessons that no classroom could ever teach: to be grateful, to be compassionate, and to value human connection above all. I learned that even in the midst of hardship, there is beauty in kindness, hope in simplicity, and strength in community.
NAPITAN, KYLA MARIE JOY N. | The Importance of Family
Their simple yet fulfilling daily routine, centered around their garden, demonstrated impressive self-sufficiency and resourcefulness. The experience was humbling, teaching me the importance of community, family, and appreciating the simple things in life.
OLILA, ROCHILLE MAE T. | The Form of Peace
The world and life are actually very simple, but we, people, are the ones who make everything complicated. Their simplicity (a cultural value) wasnโt a lack of depthโit was a form of peace that made me question my own stress.
RATILLA, JAZTEEN FYTE B. | The Beauty of Contentment
Seeing their appreciation for something so simple reminded me of the beauty of contentment. The people of Brgy. Balabag truly made an impact on my whole being, filling my heart with gratitude and sincerity.
RAYON, TRISHA MAE A. | The Richness of Culture
This immersion taught me to be more grateful for peopleโs kindness and the richness of culture. I learned that the most valuable lessons come when we step away from our comfort zones.
ROSILLO, NICO JAMES P. | Perspective on Simple Beauty
Happiness doesnโt always come from comfort or modern conveniences; sometimes, it comes from the quiet moments and the cold air. Balabag gave me more than just memoriesโit gave me perspective on the simple beauty of life.
SOLIVEN, JAZMYN MARIE D. | The Rhythm of Daily Life
The simple rhythm of their daily life, centered on farming and nature, showed me where true contentment lies. Their way of life is a powerful lesson in resilience and prioritizing community and family over material wealth.
TABUGOC, JOHN EMMANUEL G. | Ways of Survival
The community gave us the feeling of peace, determination, and fun, sharing their ways of living where only crops, efforts, and determination are the tools of survival. Their stories awaken us, and beliefs from their culture.
URBANO, RIZZE JHIYE B. | Collective Strength and Preservation
The Ovu-Manoboโs way of life reflects the kind of collective strength and mindfulness that modern societies often overlook. I learned the importance of cultural preservation, as traditions risk fading when knowledge is not passed on.
