GEOGRAPHY: Sudtonggan is a small village that is located on Mactan island, about a kilometer from the city of Cebu in the middle of Phillipines. This village of Sudtongga stands at the top of the road between the City of Lapu-Lapu and the city of Cordova. It is located near the Mactan Air Base which was inhabited by the Japanese during World War II; by the United States during the Vietnam War; and as an international base serving Cebu City.
POPULATION: Each home had a small field planted with corn and vegetables planted around and among the big stones. The location of the project was estimated to have 100 acres filled with large rocks. Farming was done by the women and children. It is estimated that 75% of the families were economically wealthy while others are forced to sell their property to make ends meet. The people actively worked to cultivate a new way of surviving as they found themselves living between a nomadic and modern society. It is estimated that the adult population reaches 850, and about 50% of children are under 15 years of age. Literacy and literacy skills are estimated to be achieved by 15 elementary school service volunteers that are located one kilometer away.
CHALLENGES: The lack of good nutrition is the biggest problem. Lung disease, skin and cold disorders also get worse. Focus was on economic principles to increase the standard of living and empower creative thinking for the good of the community.
In recent times, some students have completed high school and currently have two. Public lighting materials include three chapels and two baskets. Villagers will go to the Siyndad market in Lapu-Lapu 1gbo which is 5 km away. Although there are some tricycles owned by the villagers, most of the villagers will first go 2 miles to Basak and then take a ride. They have used the lamps for oil and the water is used for drinking from open wells. Health care at the Opon Emergency Hospital is about 4 miles [4 km] away. There are ten retail stores located in many parts of the village.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
The average annual per capita income increased by 34%, the estimated average annual family earnings increased by 446% and employment opportunities in the community by 50% with 3 local industries employing 140 people.
24% of the gross industries income supports the community’s social programs, such as health, education and essential services.
25 new buildings have been constructed including private homes and public facilities such as Health/Community Office Center, a preschool, an elementary school, 3 industrial facilities, and a Training Center.
Community identity has increased, with celebrations and the hosting of over 1000 people from 10 different nations.
Sundtonggan has birthed 25 new village projects across Mactan and provided training and staff for them.
Enrollment in elementary school has increased 1160% since 1975. A full day supporting Early Learning Nutrition Center for 50 children is operated by 4 teachers.
Over 800 participated in 33 adult and youth seminars.
