In Barangay Loboc, Municipality of Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay, lives a family who has an extraordinary journey of triumph over adversity. The Sumali family, once ensnared in the clutches of poverty, became an inspiration, all thanks to their unbreakable spirit and the transformative support of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program.

At the helm of this resilient family were Francisco and Chona Sumali, who from the very beginning were caught in the relentless grip of economic hardship. Facing limited job opportunities and a lack of education, they found themselves teetering on the edge of survival. With four young children – Jinmar, Jinrose, Sundy, and Jecel – Francisco and Chona were resolute in their determination to forge a brighter path for their family.

EARLY STRUGGLES

Their dreams for a better future prompted them to pursue agriculture, but being farmers wasn’t without its difficulties. In a small parcel of land, they worked relentlessly and changed their formerly desolate area into a flourishing farm through the united efforts of all the members of the family even in the absence of the modern farming technologies, inadequate farming tools and the absence of the required amount to finance farm inputs. 

Chona describes the challenging journey the family had in 2003 while wiping away tears and speaking with trembling hands. Chona clearly recalled the suffering her husband experienced when he became critically ill and battled a condition that baffled even the most knowledgeable doctors for four long years. She was asking herself, “1. Who will assist the family earn a living while her husband is sick? 2. Where can they find the quantity required to treat her husband? 3. How will she take care of her children if she is caring for her sick husband? During that time, their lives were surrounded by uncertainty and hopelessness.

Unthinkable of a father, Francisco even intended to kill his family, believing that it was the only way to put a stop to their suffering. Evidently, God has good things in store for them. Even though they still felt hopeless, they prayed to God even more sincerely and looked even harder for solutions. They continued to believe even in the midst of their darkest moments, each family member lending support, soothing one another, and giving each other hope.

Through their darkest hours, God’s promise started to emerge. With the help of a spiritual healer, Francisco was able to gradually recover. All the pain that he had endured for a very long time mysteriously vanished. Chona spoke with a trembling voice as she recalled their thoughts of utmost gratitude for the miracle that had saved their family. From that moment on, Francisco found fresh strength and increased his level of productivity.

SEEDS OF ASPIRATION

In the midst of financial constraints, Francisco and Chona recognized the vital role of education in breaking the chains of poverty. Their unwavering commitment to their children’s education meant that their humble one-room home was filled not only with dreams but also with books. Sacrifices were made to ensure that their children received the education they deserved. Chona, a dedicated day care worker, nurtured a love for learning in her children by establishing a rewards and recognition and celebrated each child’s achievement both academic and co-curricular activities.

THE TURNING POINT

Chona’s ingenious ways extended to the farm, where the family planted a variety of vegetables and raised hogs, weekend activities instilled the value of labor and unity among her children. The family’s pivotal moment arrived when they were selected for the Pantawid Program in 2009. This government support proved to be a turning point, empowering them to break free from the clutches of poverty.

Central to the Sumali family’s remarkable journey is the profound impact of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program. According to Chona, more than just providing crucial financial support for their children’s health and education, the program’s significance resonates deeply in the lessons it imparted. Through the Family Development Sessions (FDS), the Sumali family found a platform to learn invaluable life lessons. These sessions became a hub for instilling essential values, nurturing family relationships, and enhancing financial literacy. As they shared experiences with fellow beneficiaries, the Sumali family not only gained practical knowledge but also forged bonds that enriched their sense of community. The FDS acted as a cornerstone, empowering them with the tools to not only overcome financial challenges but to also strengthen their familial ties, all while fostering a holistic growth that radiated far beyond the realm of financial assistance.

TEMPORARY SETBACK

Amid the Sumali family’s inspiring journey, a storm of emotional turmoil arose during a period that tested their resilience to its limits. During her college days, Jinrose got pregnant. This cast a shadow of despair for the whole family, but their commitment to each other remained steadfast. With the collective love and determination of the entire family, Jinrose emerged from her trials stronger than ever. She resumed her studies with renewed purpose and, against all odds, walked across the stage to receive her degree in Business Administration. This chapter of struggle and eventual triumph revealed the Sumali family’s unbreakable spirit, underscoring that setbacks, no matter how daunting, could be overcome through unwavering unity and enduring love.

THE FRUITS OF LABOR

While Sundy completed his education course, Jinmar, the oldest, received his automotive mechanic diploma. Jinmar decides to run their farm instead of finding a job.  Jinrose for the main time settled to caring for her son while her husband worked at a canning factory in Zamboanga City. Sundy made a modestly profitable wage working as an executive secretary for a construction company. He now embark on a heartfelt mission to construct a new home as a symbol of gratitude for his parents’ sacrifices. The house will stand not just as a testament to familial love but also as a reminder of the unyielding power of gratitude to his parents and family.

THE NEW HORIZON, GIVING BACK

The family’s journey wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a tribute to their community. Francisco’s selfless service as a barangay kagawad and Sundy’s appointment as the Sanggunian Kabataan chairperson demonstrated their commitment to giving back to the community. Working as a Barangay Kagawad, Francisco accomplished in sponsoring a project constructing a road to a small community 2 kilometers from Barangay Loboc, helping the people in the community in easily transporting their farm produce to Barangay Loboc.

On the other side, Chona organized a cooperative where members pool money for small microloans that have already benefited hundreds of their members.

LEGACY OF HOPE

Today, the Sumali family serves as a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Their journey from poverty to prosperity is a beacon of hope for countless others facing similar challenges. Through unwavering determination, they shattered barriers and forged a legacy of hope.

Their story speaks volumes, reminding us that every challenge is an opportunity, every setback a stepping stone. Their success, built on hard work and an unbreakable bond, echoes the possibilities that emerge when education and dreams converge.

As the Sumali family continues to thrive, their story will remain etched in the hearts of those who hear it. A story of unwavering commitment, indomitable spirit, and the power of family, their legacy serves as an enduring testament that dreams, when nurtured with determination, can indeed blossom even in the harshest of circumstances.