Enlightened Pathways: Bridging Catechism & Philosophy through Empowerment Technology
A collaborative project of Christian Life Formation Philosophy and Empowerment Technology
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Basak San Nicolas
Basak San Nicolas, situated in Cebu City, Philippines, is a vibrant barangay teeming with lively residents. However, despite its positive aspects, the town grapples with various challenges such as issues related to drugs, pollution, and more. In response to these challenges, the local government of Basak San Nicolas has implemented community outreach programs and initiatives aimed at addressing the issues of drug abuse and pollution. Additionally, residents actively participate in neighborhood watch programs and environmental campaigns to foster a safer and cleaner living environment. Despite these efforts, ongoing community collaboration and support remain crucial in overcoming the persistent challenges faced by this dynamic barangay in Cebu City.
Ate Dina (Interviewee)
Ate Dina is a 74 year old single woman currently living in Barangay San Nicolas, Basak. She moved to that barangay in the year 2016.​
Summarized Discussion
According to Ate Dina the main problem of their barangay (Basak, San Nicolas) and their Sitio is the usage and selling of drugs because of addiction and the scarcity of money, it has become usual to their barangay to the point they are selling it like candies. As stated by Ate Dina, there is no solution for the problem since the government currently is ignoring this issue and may have someone on the inside protecting it, which users and sellers can be caught for a short period of time and be released over and over again. Nanay Dina’s wish for her barangay is that people in their community should learn to cooperate, and their leader should focus on the barangay and the people in it. Moreover, She is willing to talk to the leader and the people just to commit to that wish.
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Based on the story presented by the grade 11 Block N and D, The Divided Kingdom, she related it to the people in the barangay which are divided because of envy and pride. Thankfully, she did not experience that in her family. According to ate Dina, she suggests to the people who are distant with God to pray the rosary, and go to church. She stated that being busy is not a reason. We can always give our 1 hour of our week to be able to talk to God, she said.
Common Problems in the community
Drugs:
Drug prevalence in the area is so rampant that substances are sold as readily as candies. Consequently, numerous buy-bust operations have been conducted, adversely affecting many lives.
Poverty:
People in the area are struggling to afford basic survival needs due to the steady increase in prices, such as prices of rice, eggs, and more.
We were able to witness the resilience, strength, and dignity of individuals amidst challenging circumstances. It fosters empathy, promoting an understanding of shared humanity regardless of socio-economic differences. Interacting closely with the community fosters self-reflection, encouraging students to recognize their privileges, fostering gratitude, and understanding the importance of compassion and solidarity in creating a more equitable society.
This immersion led us to a deeper appreciation of diverse perspectives, breaking down stereotypes, and nurturing a sense of interconnectedness among individuals as fellow human beings on different paths in life. The immersive experience of engaging with a different community allows us to witness the resilience, strength, and dignity of individuals facing challenging circumstances. By interacting closely, we foster empathy and understanding, recognizing our shared humanity regardless of socio-economic differences.
This experience also encourages self-reflection, helping us acknowledge our privileges and cultivate gratitude. It emphasizes the importance of compassion and solidarity in creating a more equitable society. Immersion leads to a deeper appreciation of diverse perspectives, breaking down stereotypes, and nurturing a sense of interconnectedness among individuals as fellow human beings on unique paths in life. Through this immersive experience, we also develop a greater sense of cultural humility and open-mindedness.
By engaging directly with a different community, we learn to appreciate the richness and complexity of diverse cultures, challenging our preconceived notions and expanding our worldview. This newfound understanding allows us to become advocates for social justice and change, working towards a more inclusive and harmonious society.