Community-led
Work begins with listening, consultation, and respect for community-defined priorities.
About Us
Education grounded in respect, solidarity, and self-determination.
Liwanag at Dunong works alongside Aeta communities to support meaningful, culturally relevant, and lasting learning.
Learning together
Educators, young people, parents, and volunteers contribute to safe and caring learning spaces.
Long-term solidarity
We aim to build accountable, durable relationships rather than provide one-time charity.
The Project
Project Liwanag at Dunong
Project Brief
Project Liwanag at Dunong aims to enhance indigenous peoples' access to educational opportunities by establishing a learning center that promotes culturally relevant literacy programs for young and adult learners.
In collaboration with the Aeta community from Sitio Gayaman–Kalangitan and a group of dedicated volunteer advocates, Project Liwanag at Dunong inaugurated the solar-powered Aeta Learning Center in 2022. The ALC now administers an adult literacy program that helps community members obtain a Certificate of Completion for Basic Education through the Alternative Learning System.
Project Site
Sitio Kalangitan is a resettlement area for people affected by the 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo. It is divided into nine sitios, including Sitio Gayaman, where the Aeta Learning Center is located. The ALC serves approximately 50 families in Gayaman and the adjacent Sitio Baguingan, supporting both young and adult learners.
2021—2022
Project History
01
The project's advancement was facilitated by EcoHumans, Inc., a non-governmental organization that promotes environmental and ecological awareness. It works closely with farming and Aeta communities in Central Luzon to advocate for social and environmental justice.
02
In 2021, volunteer advocates saw how the pandemic had intensified the educational difficulties faced by Aeta youth. Limited electricity and internet access, together with insufficient learning materials, created serious obstacles to modular learning.
03
In February 2022, the advocates proposed a learning and cultural exchange hub that became the Gayaman Aeta Learning Center. It was designed to complement formal schooling through tutorials and basic literacy programs for young learners and adult community members.
04
After the proposal received unanimous approval, the community worked with the technical team to select a suitable site. Construction began in March 2022 and was completed in November 2022.
Built together
Construction Phase
The building's primary feature is a solar power system that supports lighting and ventilation in the Aeta Learning Center. The system reflects the project's focus on cost-effectiveness, environmental responsibility, and sustainability.
Engineering students and volunteers initially designed a structure using indigenous materials such as cogon and bamboo to harmonize with the community's surroundings and culture. Following extensive consultation, the design was reinforced with additional materials for long-term durability and practicality.
Men from the community joined together to build the ALC using materials supplied by supporters. Food support was provided in recognition of their active participation in the construction and their contribution to community development.
Community data
Community Profile
The Aeta Learning Center serves families in Gayaman and neighboring Baguingan. Livelihoods vary significantly: many families sell produce, while others work in construction or housekeeping.
Education data presents a diverse picture. About 20% of residents have reached high school and half have completed elementary school, yet a significant part of the community still lacks basic reading and writing skills.
| Community | Households | Population | Children 17 and below |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gayaman | 41 | 212 | 101 |
| Baguingan | 32 | 137 | 51 |
| TOTAL | 73 | 349 | 152 |
Children currently enrolled in school
| Level | Count |
|---|---|
| DayCare | 6 |
| Pre-School | 1 |
| Kinder | 9 |
| Prep | 1 |
| Grade 1 | 13 |
| Grade 2 | 8 |
| Grade 3 | 3 |
| Grade 4 | 4 |
| Grade 5 | 8 |
| Grade 6 | 2 |
| Grade 7 | 4 |
| Grade 8 | 2 |
| Grade 9 | 5 |
| Grade 10 | 2 |
| Grade 12 | 1 |
| No Data shown | 22 |
| TOTAL | 91 |
| Level | Count |
|---|---|
| Pre-School | 1 |
| Kinder | 4 |
| Grade 1 | 4 |
| Grade 2 | 7 |
| Grade 3 | 4 |
| Grade 4 | 3 |
| Grade 5 | 2 |
| Grade 6 | 1 |
| Grade 8 | 1 |
| Grade 10 | 1 |
| Grade 12 | 1 |
| Elementary | 12 |
| No Data shown | 16 |
| TOTAL | 57 |