The Global Archives of the Ecumenical Institute and Institute of Cultural Affairs

Sudtonggan, Philippines

HIGHLIGHTS

AI NOTEBOOK LM DIALOGUE and related INFOGRAPHIC

BACKGROUND

GEOGRAPHY: Sudtonggan is a small village that is located on Mactan island, about a kilometer from the city of Cebu in the middle of Philippines, standing 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: In the 1970s it was estimated that the adult population was 850 with about 50% of the children under 15 years of age. Literacy was achieved by 15 elementary school service volunteers located one kilometer away. Each home had a small field planted with corn and vegetables planted among the big stones. 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 were 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.

CHALLENGES: The lack of good nutrition were the biggest problem with lung disease, skin and cold disorders getting worse. The 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. Villagers went to the Siyndad market in Lapu-Lapu 1gbo 5 km away. Although there are some tricycles owned by the villagers, most of villagers would first go two miles to Basak to take a ride. Lamps were used for oil ,and water for drinking came from open wells. Health care at the Opon Emergency Hospital was about 4 miles [4 km] away. There are ten retail stores were located throughout the village.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

By 1980 the people of Sundtonggan celebrated the following 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 supported 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 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.

DOCUMENTS

REPLICATION IN MACTAN

DAVAO REGION REPLICATION 

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