Summary
Highlights
The documentary begins by showing the arduous journey to a school hidden in the mountains of Mindoro Oriental. Teachers Michael and Alvin, new to the profession, must cross 25 rivers and traverse three hours of muddy roads to reach the Banuan settlement. The interviewer notes the rivers become progressively more challenging, with strong currents.
Teacher Alvin, on his first assignment, expresses his shock at the demanding commute but remains committed. Both teachers Michael and Alvin recount their initial surprise at the location but remain undeterred, inspired by the children's eagerness to learn. Despite encountering deep mud and slippery, steep paths, they persevere, highlighting their determination to provide education.
After a long and challenging trek, including navigating heavy rain, the team finally reaches the Banuan settlement of the Mangyan people. The next morning, the community's day starts with gratitude, and children begin their journey to school, some walking for 30 minutes to an hour through muddy paths. The school has only two classrooms, leading to multi-grade teaching where students from different grades share a single room.
The documentary introduces Teacher Lenny, a volunteer teacher and the first Mangyan from her community to graduate college. She shares her personal story of having to live with a Tagalog family (referred to as "pagpapaampon") from a young age to pursue education, enduring bullying and loneliness but determined to serve her community. Despite not yet passing her licensure exam, she dedicates herself to teaching Kinder students.
The establishment of an extension school in Banuan in 2018 meant teachers now came to the mountains, rather than students descending. Teacher Michael praises the Mangyan children's exemplary behavior and eagerness to learn. The school also implements a feeding program twice a week, supported by NGOs and sponsors, to address malnutrition. This initiative has significantly increased school enrollment, as children are motivated to attend knowing they will receive food.
One student, 18-year-old Minik Furto, is highlighted. Despite her age, she is in Grade 3 because she comes from a more remote area where education is inaccessible. Teacher Lenny, recognizing Minik's strong desire to learn, took her in, providing her with an opportunity to study. Minik dreams of becoming a doctor to help her family and community, which currently lacks medical professionals.
Teacher Lenny dreams of her students finishing their education and returning to uplift their community, avoiding the need to seek work outside. The community's strong faith is evident as they pray daily, expressing gratitude despite their challenges. The documentary concludes with Kara David reflecting on the Mangyan's unwavering spirit, the teachers' dedication, and Teacher Lenny's commitment to her people. It expresses hope that one day, no child will go hungry or have to leave their family for education, and that essential services will reach all isolated communities.