A JOURNEY RESILIENCE AND HOPE
The aftermath of the Marawi Siege left many families in Barangay Olango, Piagapo, Lanao del Sur, struggling to rebuild their lives. Among those affected was Mrs. Sarah P. Macud, a 54-year-old mother of 12, whose family faced numerous challenges. Her husband, a pedicab driver and the president of the Olango Sindaw ko Kawiyagan Producer Cooperative, worked tirelessly to provide for their family.
Change began when MARADECA, in collaboration with PLAN International through the Marawi Response Project (MRP), identified Barangay Olango as an area in urgent need of support, recognizing the resilience of its people and its potential for long-term economic impact. The MRP addresses various needs, including social cohesion, economic recovery, and livelihood support.
This initiative complements the Enhancing Food Security and Livelihood in the Bangsamoro project, launched by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The program is designed to support internally displaced persons (IDPs), particularly women, in creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering self-sufficiency.
Through MARADECA’s training and capacity-building programs, Mrs. Macud not only honed her sewing skills but also learned to create a variety of items, including bags, vests, curtains, malongs, veils, and dresses. These skills provided her with a sustainable source of income and a sense of pride in her work.
“I am thankful and proud that MARADECA taught me skills that became my source of living,” she shared. “What I learned has not only helped my family, but it has given us the tools to support ourselves and move forward.” The Olango Sindaw ko Kawiyagan Producer Cooperative, led by Mrs. Macud,became a key pillar of the initiative. With MARADECA’s support, the cooperative received capacity-building training, access to sewing machines, and hands-on guidance to develop their social enterprises.
The project’s emphasis on enhancing organizational and financial capacities allowed cooperative members to collaborate effectively and expand their businesses. Thanks to this strengthened financial standing, the cooperative now provides 5,000 pesos to all members every Ramadhan. Additionally, many cooperative members have benefited from academic support for their children, with several graduating with Latin honors and obtaining professional licenses—a testament to the project’s farreaching impact.
Through exhibits, provincial events, and consultations, these women have gained recognition for their work, Increasing their visibility in the broader economic landscape. Meanwhile, the women of Barangay Olango remain actively involved in community projects, supporting Islamic seminars and contributing to the construction of amosque.
Their journey of resilience has become a beacon of hope for other communities, proving that with the right support and opportunities, sustainable development is possible— even in the most challenging circumstances. Mrs. Macud, along with other cooperative members like Ms. Isnaira A. Arsad, is deeply grateful for MARADECA’s support.
“I am overwhelmed and honored to have been part of this journey,” Ms. Arsad said, reflecting on the many exhibitions and dialogues they have participated in. Today, the women of Barangay Olango stand strong, proud of their accomplishments, and optimistic about the future they are building—not just for themselves, but for their families and their community.