Emergency Relief for Inter-Faith Filipino Children

The Philippines has long been plagued by natural and man-made disasters that has created a dangerous environment for many communities. The importance of building peace and generating success is through community members joining hands to show love and care for their local children.  There are no better places for expressing community solidarity and Child Peace Zones than public schools.

Of the more than 50 public schools being assisted by Asia America Initiative, one of our most valuable participants is Salih Yusah Elementary School in the Sulu region now rated among the top public schools in the country by the Philippine Department of Education. This would have appeared impossible when AAI first engaged Salih Yusah in 2018.  At that time the province had the poorest rate of educational achievement in the country.

The archipelago and province of Mindanao borders with Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei.  In fact, this total area has the largest population of Muslims in the World.  Christians are around ten per cent of the population and the Sama-Badjao sea gypsies who live at sea on their simple fishing/house boats are another ten percent.  Since 2002, Asia America Initiative was asked by the Philippine President Gloria Arroyo and guerilla leader Prof. Nur Misuari to act as a bridge between Muslims and Christians to ensure peace following a 30 year civil war. 

At the suggestion of Muslim and Catholic religious leaders and local partners,  AAI has been active in war and disaster torn communities to achieve that ideal goal.  The schools have made the difference with Salih Yusah leading the way. Reading Camps, organic School  Gardens, Health and Nutrition Festivals and our Little Nurses First Aid program have attracted eager learners, with nore than 1,000 in January 2026.  Moms and Dads take an active role in buiilding and fixing the school while Moms and Grandmoms prepare healthy school-based lunches.  "The support from AAI and all of their donors has been the difference-maker,"  says Principal Merhama.  And AAI Director Albert Santoli says, "The most important skills I have learned as AAI Director are "How to Listen," and "To Be Patient and think of a Long Range process."

Still, the many storms and earthquakes wear down the school facilities.  We now seek your help to  build and expand essential classrooms as the school population grows.  

If you would like to add to your healing gift for children receiving treatment or begin monthly support, please follow the link below.

Emergency Relief for Inter-Faith Filipino Children - #46834

Wishing you peace,

Albert Santoli

Director, Asia America Initiative

Links:

• Asia America Initiative website