OUR INITiative
Empower communities and brighten pathways by supporting The KAPWA Initiative. Join us in our pledge to bring light and hope to the Dumagat communities.
WHO WE ARE
The KAPWA Initiative
Welcome to the KAPWA Initiative, a collective of dedicated engineering and technology enthusiasts committed to sharing their knowledge to enhance lives.
Our mission, though simple in its essence, carries profound significance: to brighten the lives of these communities by providing them with the gift of light through solar lampposts.
Our VISION
Our vision is to foster a community founded on the principles of brotherhood and collaboration, where individuals come together to support one another and share sustainable technologies that empower a brighter future.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to empower communities by providing sustainable systems that improve their quality of life, enhance safety, and foster a senseof unity and progress among the members of the community.
What is the meaning of "Kapwa"?
*Kapwa” is a Filipino concept that celebrates shared humanity, a sense of togetherness, and the recognition that we are all interconnected. By illuminating the path, we symbolize the light of kindness, compassion, and unity. Our initiative goes beyond physical light; it sheds light on the importance of understanding, empathy, and supporting one another, regardless of our backgrounds.
MEET THE OFFICERS
NEO ANGELO GATLABAYAN
Project Director / Founder
Neo is an individual whose love for mathematics and sciences has not only defined his passion but has also illuminated the path of those around him. Regarded by his peers as approachable and ever-eager to share his knowledge, he derives fulfillment from kindling the flame of curiosity in others.
His journey began with a love for mathematics but evolved into a passion for sciences and engineering, driven by a deep desire to benefit his community. As the founder of The KAPWA Initiative, he transforms his passion into a force for good, for the betterment of his community.
“It is my hope that through our diligent collaboration with indigenous communities like the Dumagats, we, as a whole, can come together and form the bonds that make a true KAPWA. By installing solar lamps, we can guide our fellow brothers and sisters towards greater communal livelihood. All it takes is one step, one light at a time.”
ETHAN JARED CHAN
Head of Operations
Ethan is a keen math and music enthusiast who finds joy unraveling the mysteries of mathematical problems while finding artistic expression in his vocal and instrumental musical pursuits. A deeply introspective person, he has shown that in the quiet spaces that once defined him, he would find courage and purpose in helping out his KAPWA, one act of kindness, or to be precise, one solar lamp post, at a time.
“It is my hope that through our collective voices, we, in KAPWA, would be able to inspire others to join our advocacy to light up and empower marginalized communities like those of the Dumagat. Bringing solar lamps to communities is more than illuminating homes; it’s about lighting the path to education, progress, and a brighter future for all.”
Join Us in
Illuminating Pathways
The KAPWA Initiative is more than just an initiative; it’s a movement fueled by love, compassion, and the desire to create a better world for all.
Together, we can brighten the lives of the Dumagat communities and inspire positive change that ripples far beyond the mountains of Rizal.
Join us in illuminating pathways, empowering communities, and fostering a brighter future.
INITIATIVE FOR THE DUMAGAT COMMUNITY
Being raised in Antipolo and Taguig, I am fortunate to have a robust network of friends and family I can rely on for help and support. These are what I value and wish to share with others. Within this community of family and friends, we enjoy the benefits of a modern society. Amenities like electricity, internet, quality education, etc., are a norm we have growing up. Like many, I am privileged to have access to this easily.
However, my perspective changed when I discovered that the Dumagat communities have limited access to basic neccesities such as electricity and running water which I take for granted. They are the indigenous people living in the Sierra Madre Mountain range close to my home in Antipolo City, in the province of Rizal. This revelation posed a fundamental question: how can this gap be met, and can I make a difference?
From left to right Ethan Chan, Tatay Eddie, Tatay Erning, Tatay Totoy,
Neo Angelo Gatlabayan
Throughout weekly visits to the Dumagat Village of San Ysiro, I befriended the Chieftain Tatay Erning and the elder leaders Tatay Totoy and Tatay Eddie. Together, we identified their immediate needs. Our dialogues guided my quest to help improve the lives of our brothers in the Dumagat community. I saw their need for school supplies and the enhanced efficiency of their farming practices. What proved to be the immediate need was to address their security at night, especially for those who walk the secluded path to their homes deep into the mountains. As these presented a problem, I pondered on what I could do.
Inspired by kindness, compassion and family spirit in servicing others, The KAPWA Initiative was born. Giving rise to my first project: Pledge for 100 lights
Neo Angelo Gatlabayan
Founder
The KAPWA Initiative
THE COMMUNITY
Who are the Dumagats?
The Dumagat communities in the Philippines are indigenous peoples who inhabit various regions of the country, often in remote and mountainous areas. Despite their rich cultural heritage, many Dumagat communities have faced challenges such as displacement, lack of access to education and healthcare, and limited economic opportunities. We are dedicated to supporting and empowering these communities to overcome these challenges and preserve their unique ways of life.
PROMOTING BROTHERHOOD
The KAPWA Initiative
“KAPWA” is a Filipino concept that celebrates shared humanity, a sense of togetherness, and the recognition that we are all interconnected. By illuminating the path, we symbolize the light of kindness, compassion, and unity. Our initiative goes beyond physical light; it sheds light on the importance of understanding, empathy, and supporting one another, regardless of our backgrounds.
A BEACON OF LIGHT
Neo Angelo Gatlabayan
Having witnessed the struggles faced by the Dumagat communities firsthand, he felt a calling to do something transformative. Inspired by the Filipino concept of “Kapwa,” Neo Gatlabayan recognized the profound impact that a simple act of kindness and compassion could have on these communities. This paved the way for an initiative that transcends mere illumination.
ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTION
Why Solar Lamp Posts?
Solar lamp posts embody sustainability and innovation. They harness the power of the sun to illuminate the darkest corners, providing a reliable and eco-friendly solution to the lack of light. By utilizing solar energy, we not only meet the immediate need for illumination but also contribute to a cleaner and greener environment.