Kind-hearted man brings Christmas cheer to tribes

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

PARACALE, Camarines Norte --- Christmas came early for over 300 members of the Manide and Agta-Tabangnon tribes as a philanthropist anonymously provided Noche Buena packs and school supplies to their communities.

For the Manide tribe in Barangay Bakal, Paracale, the simple gifts meant a joyous celebration. “We are happy and grateful for these Noche Buena packs for the second time. It’s priceless because my fellow tribesmen now have food to share on Christmas Day,” said Lito Alvarez, 57, chieftain of the Manide tribe.

Alvarez noted that their usual meals consist of root crops and rice when available, but the Christmas packs—which included spaghetti and bread—will make this year’s festivities special. “We don’t celebrate Christmas like lowlanders. But this year, we have food to partake in. Thank you for remembering us,” he added.

Children from the Katutubo Elementary School in Bakal also received school supplies, a gesture that Alvarez said would greatly help their education.

The Manide tribe, one of the oldest indigenous communities in the Bicol Region, faces numerous challenges, including poverty and limited access to basic services like water and livelihood opportunities. Many tribe members live in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, making outreach programs like this one invaluable.

The same philanthropist also extended aid to the Agta-Tabangnon tribe in Sitio Tabgon, Barangay Misibis, Tiwi, Albay. Over 100 Agta-Tabangnon families received Noche Buena packs, while more than 200 pupils at Tabgon Elementary School, many of whom belong to the tribe, were given complete sets of school supplies.

Erlinda Cerenio, the IP chieftain in Sitio Antom, expressed gratitude for the consistent support. “We are thankful for the Noche Buena packs and school supplies for our children. These gifts bring joy to our community,” she said.

Volunteers from Legazpi City, along with local police officers, delivered the gifts to both communities, braving rugged terrain to ensure the supplies reached their intended recipients.

The Manide and Agta tribes, among the poorest sectors in the Bicol Region, continue to preserve their cultural heritage while striving to overcome the challenges of isolation and poverty. Initiatives like these not only bring relief but also highlight the importance of supporting indigenous communities across the Philippines.

Agta-Tabangnon Community Outreach: The Agta-Tabangnon tribe in Tiwi, Albay, celebrates Christmas with Noche Buena packs and school supplies provided by an anonymous benefactor. Volunteers and police officers facilitated the distribution. Rhaydz B. Barcia