I want to write a lengthier and more comprehensive article about a small barrio surrounded by rivers in Masantol, Pampanga, the barrio where my mom was born and grew up. Before it was still part of Hagonoy, Bulacan. I am talking about, Baryo Sapang Kawayan. My grandfather, Marcelo Lopez was a legacy here. Being the Kapitan del Baryo (chieftain) for 20 yrs, same length as the Marcos' regime. But his leadership was no way near the martial law scheme, he was always remembered as a good leader. The people loved him and the place was just peaceful (well i think people before are more friendly and calm unlike now!). Anyhow, there are lots of good things to say to describe the barrio, i promise i'll write a better blog focusing on it only one day. Ofcourse I haven't witness them, my mom and her 10 siblings are my story tellers. Its just like sad and frustrating, that while growing up, I saw that the barrio is changing, its becoming worse. I'm affected to the point that I even had it as my undergraduate thesis topic (The present status of the reading and writing competencies of the gr 6 students of Baryo Sapang Kawayan, Masantol, Pampanga - 2004) and even provided the copy of our research findings to them. Some of the problems basically are substandard means of education (they only have elementary school back then, but they have the HS just recent) and early marriage. Just like what was featured in iWitness.
But one day, I was surprised that a group page was made for the baryo and the purpose are to uplift the morale of the people, campaign for awareness about the social issues they have, and just simply keep inspiring others especially the youth to study hard and have a good future. I can't help but commend the admin of the page, but just like a good irony, i also tap the issue of the early marriage thing. My intention is not to humiliate them, but to leave them something to think about, for them to be more aware and act together in resolving these issues. Its like reverse psychology. And i'm happy with the responses. I hope that people will help each other to address these concerns and i still believe that these people, could make a difference. I wish i could write more, but i'm too sleepy (LOL). Let us help each other to uphold Sapang Kawayan. God bless Sapang Kawayan.. Cheers!
here is my post in their group page:
Greetings Sapang Kawayan!
I commend the purpose of this page. Cheers to you all!
I quoted your description and i agree that we should do something to redeem the dignity of our beloved barrio. However, the featured video below is quite alarming. In the time of our grandparents, Sapang Kawayan is way better than what we have now. I just hope that the concerned people address these social issues toimprove our image. More power to you, to the people who are willing to make a difference.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1t2abi9g4NE
"Ang Barangay ng Sapang kawayan ay isang isla na puno ng kayamanan na maipagmamalaki sa buong mundo.
Iwaksi natin ang misconception ng ibang tao sa ating barangay.
Ipakita natin sakanila na hindi yun ang dapat makita ng iba sa atin.
Tayo ay mayaman sa nakakaraming bagay.
Magkaisa tayo sa pagpapaunlad ng ating bayan."
www.youtube.com
Documentary by Kara David I Witness(ANG MGA DALAGITA NG SAPANG KAWAYAN) 03-21-2011 GMA-7
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