Pathways to Prosperity
A collaborative project of Christian Life Formation, Philosophy, and Empowerment Technology
Exploring Our Community Immersion through Integrating Philosophical Ideas
Description of The Sitio
Welcome visitors to your site with a short, engaging introduction.
Double click to edit and add your own text.
-
Sitio Asophoa and Jansen Site
During our visit to the Saint Arnold Janssen community in Basak San Nicolas, we were able to witness the unique atmosphere of the barangay. The streets, although long and narrow, were bustling with activity, reflecting the daily struggles of the people who inhabit them. Unfortunately, the crowded and poorly maintained streets were a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the residents. Amongst the mix of old, makeshift, and new buildings, one notable structure stood out—the impeccably maintained Saint Arnold Janssen Church, which exuded beauty and serenity.
Once our immersion began, we had the opportunity to engage in conversations and forge connections with some of the individuals residing in the San Nicolas community. Through these interactions, we gained deeper insights into the dynamics of the sitio. The residents described their living conditions as chaotic and messy, with a diverse range of individuals calling it home. From the impoverished and homeless to those who fared slightly better, the community represented a melting pot of people from various walks of life.
Summary of the Information Gathered
In the course of Nanay Evelyn B. Montero's life, our first interviewee, the youngest of nine siblings from an underprivileged background, shared her story, emphasizing her commitment to caring for her family, especially her grandchildren. “Lisod. Lisod jud. Lisod jud kaayo.” Said nanay Evelyn because of the struggles she faces. Despite taking on various jobs, such as being a maid, she expressed the difficulty and hardship she faced, emphasizing the impact of high inflation on their community. The conversation highlighted a plea for government intervention to address rising prices, with a focus on collective well-being.
Additionally, interviews with ate Elna Mansneto and ate Jennifer Pianon revealed a deep connection to their birthplace, where the familiarity among community members has minimized major conflicts. Challenges like road issues and floods were addressed with government assistance, showing effective collaboration. Concerns about minors going out were discussed, highlighting a need for community awareness. The most pressing issue emerged as the inflation of prices, impacting daily life significantly. Despite challenges, all three of the interviewees expressed a shared ambition for their community to prosper, indicating a collective desire for positive growth and improvement.
C. INTEGRATING THE EXPERIENCE WITH THE LESSONS IN PHILO01
"Deep Dive Into Humanity"
Our community immersion serves as an introduction to the fundamental questions and concepts that have shaped human thought for centuries. By immersing oneself in the daily lives, struggles, and triumphs of a community, individuals are confronted with the complexities of human existence, sparking contemplation on topics such as intersubjectivity, social ecology, and Martin Buber’s Philosophy of “I-Thou” dialogue. This immersive encounter with diverse perspectives and lived realities prompts us to question our own assumptions, biases, and preconceived notions, opening the door to a deeper exploration of philosophical ideas and their application to the real world.
​
Through the activity, we experienced the intersubjectivity of Edmund Husserl, where we got to share our thoughts, feelings, and personal experiences. This enabled us to understand and empathize with each other’s unique life experiences and struggles. As we listened to one another, we felt a sense of connection and shared understanding, laying the foundation for empathy and the ability to see the world from different perspectives. Which leads to the interdependency between human societies and the natural world. This understanding lays the groundwork for a holistic approach and ethical responsibility towards creating harmonious relationships not just among people, but also with the natural environment that sustains us. With that the social ecology lesson connected to our activity by recognizing the interdependence between human societies and the natural world. It emphasizes the ethical responsibility to live in harmony with nature and acknowledges that human well-being is intricately intertwined to the health and vitality of the ecosystems we inhabit.
_edited.jpg)
Our Personal Reflections
Our community parish immersion was an eye-opening experience that showed me the power of human connection and the richness of life beyond my immediate surroundings. I learned that we are all interconnected, bound by shared experiences and the desire for belonging. I witnessed the transformative power of human connection and the impact of simple acts of kindness. I emerged with a renewed sense of purpose and a desire to contribute to the collective well-being of my community.
Kadie Laureen B. Dagatan
​
​The experience in Barangay Mambaling served as a powerful reality check, offering a poignant glimpse into the struggles of individuals like Nanay Evelyn who are willing to do whatever it takes to provide for their families. This encounter prompted a deep sense of gratitude for the basic necessities often taken for granted, highlighting the sheer disparities in access to essentials. The lesson of humility and hard work emerged organically as I connected with the stories of resilience within the community. Witnessing the tenacity of those facing challenges became a source of inspiration, emphasizing the value of approaching life with humility and a strong work ethic. Above all, the experience underscored the innate human inclination to connect and help one another, reinforcing the idea that we are born to share in each other's journeys and offer support, regardless of differences in circumstances or backgrounds.
Eric Anthony F. Reyes
​Engaging in the Parish Immersion helped me understand myself better by pushing me out of my comfort zone. Interacting with others in the community made me reflect on my own values and beliefs. Through these interactions, I gained insights into different life experiences.. It also made me open my eyes to bigger problems that often go unnoticed. Overall, the experience served as a window, allowing me to see aspects of myself through the interactions and helping me appreciate the values that come from understanding others.
Mary Airene Soronio
