| |
Life is far from simple in mountain communities on the Philippine island of Mindanao |
| |
|
Poverty is a reality. Communities are underserved living on the economic fringe often in physical isolation. |
|
High rates of nutritional deficiency disorders, infections and parasitic diseases are commonly found. |
|
Many communities have suffered the devastating effects of past local armed conflicts. |
|
Education remains an elusive dream. While schools exist, facilities are minimal, books are almost non-existent, and many children attend school undernourished. Most students fortunate enough to reach Grade 5 or 6 often have the literacy of Grade 2 or 3.
|
|
Slash and burn agriculture and illegal mining have left many communities with few benefits and many negative environmental and social impacts. |
|
|
