A Day in Sitio Haduan: A Visit Filled with Care and Celebration
On June 7, 2025, Sitio Haduan in Mabalacat, Pampanga became the setting for a heartwarming day of community, fun, and meaningful support. Volunteers gathered for a simple but impactful outreach effort—focused not just on giving, but on spending real time with the people of this vibrant Aeta community.
The outreach, made possible through the collective efforts of Bayanihan Movers, Ginoo at Binibining Guimba, Regent Foods Corporation, Village Pipol Magazine, Visualscape Media, Red Entertainment, Persians International, PGBI Guardians Gerona, volunteers, and The Michael Lublin Foundation.
Bringing smiles to children and relief to families
While the team brought with them school supplies, hygiene kits, food packs, and medical assistance, what stood out most was the energy and joy shared between everyone that day. The residents of Sitio Haduan—especially the children—welcomed the volunteers with open arms and wide smiles. There was laughter in the air, playful chatter between kids and visitors, and a lightness that made the day feel like a small celebration.
Volunteers hosted a birthday party-style celebration that filled the children with excitement and laughter. A clown entertained the crowd with fun tricks and games, while the kids enjoyed ice cream, Jollibee lunch meals, snacks, and toys—creating a festive atmosphere that brought big smiles to their faces.
For the parents, the whole team distributed bags of rice, grocery items, slippers, and hygiene kits; practical support that could help ease some of their everyday needs.
Ms. Fe Layson, Principal of Haduan Negrito Integrated School, warmly hosted the event. Her support and presence helped ensure the smooth and welcoming flow of the day. With her guidance and the active participation of the community, the outreach became even more meaningful and well-organized for everyone involved.
Everyone played a part, whether they were packing goods, guiding the crowd, or simply sharing a friendly conversation.
Building genuine connection
What truly made the outreach special was not just the gifts given, but the way the day unfolded—with warmth, ease, and genuine connection. There was no formality or fanfare, just people coming together to help, laugh, and enjoy the moment. It was clear that the volunteers didn’t just show up to hand things out—they were there to be present, to listen, and to have fun with the community.
For Village Pipol Magazine, partnering with The Michael Lublin Foundation continues their shared commitment to reaching and supporting small communities. Since 2009, the Foundation has brought aid and attention to more than 18 underserved areas around Luzon, and efforts like this remain close to their mission.
Echoing advocacy
As a publication, Village Pipol resonates deeply with that mission. Its’ advocacy has always been to tell stories that matter—not just those that happen in the spotlight, but also the quiet, powerful stories found in far-flung places and among everyday people. Believing that each person’s story deserves space, dignity, and attention.
Visiting Sitio Haduan reminded us why we do what we do—we witnessed firsthand the strength that defines the community. We saw a community that deserves to be seen, heard, and respected on their own terms.
This outreach isn’t about giving from excess. It’s about sharing space, listening deeply, and showing up in ways that truly matter. Village Pipol also wants to thank its partner brands and clients for making this possible.
As stories and smiles exchanged in Sitio Haduan, something more lasting than a one-day event emerged. It reminded everyone just how powerful kindness can be when shared freely. And as the volunteers packed up to leave, they carried with them something deeper than just a sense of accomplishment: a renewed appreciation for connection and community.
Here’s to the people of Sitio Haduan—for their openness, warmth, and for reminding everyone that sometimes, the most meaningful days are the ones spent simply having fun and being together.
