Street clean-ups, celebrations and press releases usually follow election days in the Philippines. Felix Tapao, a Romblomanon Punong Barangay (Village Chief) candidate, had another idea to thank his community for their support at the recent Barangay (Village) nationwide elections. On May 15, 2018, his daughter, Jean Karla Tapao of Humanist Alliance Philippines, International (HAPI), organized a gift-giving program for the needy children of Barangay Dubduban.
Jean briefly discussed the mission and vision of HAPI for humanity as a registered organization. Then, the afternoon horizon was filled with laughs and cheers as the children played fun games. Looking on were parents who took pleasure in seeing their children have a wonderful time. The program wrapped up with the distribution of gifts and treats.
About fifty children received school supply kits. Every kit is filled with paper, notebooks, pencils, and personal hygiene items. Her niece, Ashken Tamer and cousin, Alduen Moncawe helped in making this program successful.
“Sharing is caring. Sharing is not only giving goods or material things to the people who are in need but it is somehow showing love and appreciation by sharing of your time and effort to someone you don’t know, no matter what they look like, where they come from, or what religion they follow. For me, that’s the true meaning of caring. We share because we care for them.”
– Jean Karla Tapao
Coming from a public-spirited family, Jean is a humanist and an advocate of secular education. She took a vacation from her teaching stint in Metro Manila and supported her father’s campaign. The opportunity to help the community on a more considerable scale motivated her father to run in the elections. Although he lost, it motivated him more to give back to his people.
“Win or lose, we will continue to help them.”
– Felix Tapao
Barangay Dubduban is located on Tablas Island in San Agustin, Romblon, with a population of some 22,598 people according to a 2015 census data. Other than marble production, agriculture is the prevailing industry in Romblon. Coconut and rice are the most cultivated crops. Fishing industry is also a major enterprise as the province is surrounded by water. In recent years, tourism has become a source of income for its people as natural attractions such as fine beaches, and crystal clear waterfalls, and manmade historical attractions are discovered.
“Helping others is a family tradition, it runs in our blood. I am very happy and thankful to have a family like them. They are very supportive.”
– Jean Karla Tapao
Jean is an educator of HAPI Secular Humanist Advocacy Development and Education (SHADE).
The Author
McJarwin Cayacap
- HAPI Metro Manila Member
- Web Content Editor
- National Events Director
- Public Relations Officer
Currently in between careers, he busies himself with anything that works for the good of humanity. Other than being a humanist, he is a realist, an art aficionado, a frugal foodie and a weary wanderer. He looks forward to working in the central government.
