Despite the vibrant tourism and economic growth on Boracay Island, the Ati community, the original nurturers of the land, often find themselves overlooked. In the episode of Dear SV, hosted by Sam “SV” Verzosa, the spotlight was turned on the challenges facing the Ati community, and the efforts being made to uplift them.
Sister Elvie Oliamot, a dedicated missionary from Cebu, has been caring for the Ati community for nearly five years. Nestled in a 200-hectare plot of land, the Ati community once freely utilized the island’s natural resources. However, as Boracay thrived with large businesses, the Ati found themselves confined to their land, struggling to keep pace.
Recognizing education as the key to social advancement, the Ati’s chief emphasized the importance of learning. Rowena Tamboon, one of the community’s aspiring students, dreams of becoming a nurse to serve her people, who often lack access to medical care. With limited resources hindering their ability to reach health centers, the Ati resort to alternative medicine or endure pain.
The public service program Dear SV brought the candidates of Miss Universe Philippines 2024 to the Ati Village for a medical mission. Led by SV and supported by Aqua Boracay, the community received free health check-ups, dental care, and essential medicines. Amidst the healthcare activities, moments of joy were shared through games and dance performances.
To further support the Ati community, SV and Aqua Boracay provided grocery packages and hygiene kits, ensuring their well-being beyond the medical mission. Carlo Co, Chief Operating Officer and Director of Aqua Boracay, expressed his commitment to supporting the community’s health and prosperity.
“Sobrang saya ko na nakita at nakilala ko ang mga Ati,” SV expressed. “Sana sa pag-feature natin sa kanila sa programang Dear SV, ay makita natin ang significance nila sa lugar ng Boracay.”
