by Hanna Libre, RSW
From the Field: A Mother’s Story in Pangilao
During the screening and distribution in Pangilao, Catanduanes, I met April Joy, a housewife and mother to two young recipients of the BCFP program: Edriealle Joy (4 years old) and Lucky France (2 years old). April shared that she also became a recipient when she was pregnant with Lucky France. With her husband working as a farmer, their family has had to be resourceful to meet their children’s needs.
She mentioned that both of her children are picky eaters, and the supplements from BCFP have been a big help in making sure they get the nutrients they need. When asked what changes she’s noticed since joining the program, she smiled and said, “Mas naging healthy ang mga bata.” Before, Edriealle was underweight—now, she’s slowly becoming healthier. They also no longer need to spend as much on supplements and vitamins, which helps ease their financial worries.
April Joy’s story is a reminder that small, consistent, and community-based support can truly make a difference in the lives of families.
April Joy with Lucky France and Edriealle Joy
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Training and Empowering Community Coordinators
In Albay, I had the opportunity to facilitate a training session with our dedicated Community Coordinators. The session focused on strengthening their understanding of BCFP’s mission, improving program implementation, and reinforcing their vital role in tracking malnutrition, making accurate reports, and supporting families with health referrals.
What stood out most during the training was their openness—not just in learning, but in sharing their struggles and hopes. Many of them carry heavy emotional burdens from their work, but their commitment remains strong. They shared that it’s their faith, personal purpose, and love for the children that keep them going. We closed the session with a sense of unity and renewed encouragement, knowing they are not alone in this work.
Training with Bicol Community Coordinators
Moments That Moved Me
One of the most touching parts of this trip was meeting a Community Coordinator who traveled all the way from Donsol to attend our “Gather and Grow” workshop. She left her home at 3:00 AM just to be with us on time. Despite the long travel, she remained focused and eager to learn. Her commitment was deeply humbling.
Another story that stayed with me was from Tabaco, where I met Rubie Mae, the mother of Aldrich Paul, a 3-year-old boy with Down syndrome. Aldrich also has congenital heart disease and is in need of surgery. Despite their situation, Rubylyn remains strong and hopeful. She mentioned how grateful she is for the nutritional support from BCFP, especially since Aldrich requires more attention and care. Her eldest daughter, Ashley Jhamae, who was also a past beneficiary of the program, now helps look after her younger brother. Seeing how the family continues to push forward with love and resilience was both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Families like Rubie Mae’s remind us that our work reaches far beyond supplements—it touches lives, eases burdens, and offers hope where it’s needed most.
Rubie Mae with Ashley Jhamae and Aldrich Paul
Looking Ahead
This trip to Bicol reaffirmed what I’ve always believed: when we work together with compassion and purpose, we can lift others up—even in the most remote and underserved places. Whether through a coordinator who wakes before dawn to serve her community or a mother who does everything she can to keep her children healthy, I witnessed love in action.
Every step of this journey has reminded me that behind every screening, every training, every supplement we distribute—there is a story of hope, resilience, and transformation.
Distribution/Screening in Pangilao, Catanduanes
How You Can Help
Our work would not be possible without the kindness and support of our donors, volunteers, and community partners. If you feel inspired to help children like Edriealle, Lucky France, or Aldrich Paul, or to support our hardworking volunteers, please visit bountifulchildren.org to learn how you can get involved.
Together, we can bring hope and nourishment to more families across the Philippines.
Bacacay and Tabaco recipients
Oh!! Love your story sis Hanna.