The Philippine Nikkei-jin Legal Support Center (PNLSC) recently held a workshop on assembling small solar lights to assist the Nikkei-jin community in Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental. This meaningful project was made possible through the support of Liter of Light (an NPO based in Manila), Philippine Nikkeijin Kai – Davao (PNJK), Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku (MKD), and the Municipality of Jose Abad Santos.
Addressing Energy Challenges in an Underserved Community
Jose Abad Santos has long been neglected in terms of social infrastructure, with an estimated 60-80% of its residents being Nikkei-jin. To address the community’s lack of stable electricity, PNLSC launched a crowdfunding campaign on July 11, successfully raising the necessary funds. Simultaneously, PNLSC called for Japanese volunteers to join the initiative and contribute to the cause.
Thanks to the collective efforts of participants and supporters, the project was successfully completed, and 160 solar lights were distributed to households in Barangay Meybio, Jose Abad Santos.
Day-by-Day Project Highlights
Day 1 (September 12)
Five volunteers from Japan arrived in Davao at different times. A kick-off meeting was held at PNJK, where Japanese volunteers met with student volunteers from MKD. During the meeting, the collaboration between Filipino and Japanese buddy volunteers was announced. The day ended with a shared dinner, including members of Liter of Light—emphasizing the importance of community bonding before starting the project.
Day 2 (September 13)
A six-hour journey from Davao City brought the team to the Municipality of Jose Abad Santos by noon. Upon arrival, Ms. Pinky Kimura, a third-generation Nikkei-jin, warmly welcomed the team and introduced them to high school student volunteers who would be participating in the project.
Day 3 (September 14)
Over a hundred residents gathered at the Barangay Gym to participate in the workshop. The Liter of Light team provided a hands-on demonstration on assembling and checking the functionality of the solar light kits. Each household representative received a kit and learned how to assemble, use, and maintain it. With the assistance of volunteers, all participants successfully built their own solar lights and brought them home to their families.
Day 4 (September 15)
The volunteers divided into three groups to visit different areas and monitor the project’s impact. They interviewed families who had started using the solar lights in their homes. Here are some testimonials from beneficiaries:
- “We are happy because we can now do things without hassle and difficulty. It is especially convenient for our one-year-old son.”
- “We used to rely on flashlights, lighters, or improvised lights. Now, our home is brighter, and our kids can study properly, even on weekdays.”
- “Electricity here is inconsistent, with frequent brownouts, but now things are much better. We are grateful for the relief this has brought.”
Later that day, the volunteers had the opportunity to meet Municipal Mayor Jason John Joyce. A closing ceremony was held before the MKD students returned to Davao City. Each participant shared their reflections on the experience, and buddy teams showcased performances they had secretly prepared during the project.
Day 5 (September 16)
On the way back to Davao, the team visited Mr. Sergio Habuchi in General Santos City to inform him of the approval of his Japanese nationality.
This initiative brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds, uniting them in a shared goal of providing light and hope to a community in need. Witnessing firsthand the history and current realities of the Nikkei-jin was a priceless experience for everyone involved.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who welcomed us, supported us, and contributed to this meaningful project. Your kindness and generosity made this endeavor possible!
Reflections from the Volunteers
Filipino MKD Student’s Message:
“There are still areas in the Philippines that electricity cannot reach. I had only seen these scenarios on TV or in documentaries, but now I have witnessed it firsthand. This experience opened my mind and inspired me to do more. I feel fortunate to have electricity at home, and I now understand that my presence here has a greater purpose.”
Japanese Volunteers’ Messages:
- “This experience exceeded my expectations. I was shocked to see homes without electricity. Despite their hardships, the people’s homes were clean, and their spirits were bright. I want to share this experience with my friends and family and continue thinking about this community.”
- “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see how some Nikkei-jin live in Jose Abad Santos. Life is challenging for them, but I was moved by the children’s smiles—they seemed genuinely happy! I also appreciate the kindness of the local supporters and residents.”
- “The most impactful moment was meeting war-displaced Japanese descendants for the first time. It made me reflect deeply on my own identity.”
- “I would love to participate in more volunteer work like this if similar opportunities arise.”
This initiative was more than just a project—it was a movement to bring sustainable energy and hope to a deserving community. Thank you to everyone who made it possible!
