Daughters of Charity- Bongao
In July 2006, three Sisters from the Daughters of Charity–Philippine Province, members of the DC Jolo Community, arrived in Bongao to serve as Program Coordinators for the Apostolic Vicariate of Jolo. Their mission centered on three key initiatives: Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC), the BHC Program, and Interreligious Dialogue (IRD).
Recognizing the need for meaningful entry points for the BHC and IRD programs, an initial meeting was held on July 13, 2006. During this gathering, the tribal leaders expressed a heartfelt desire to improve literacy within their communities, citing the challenges of their disadvantaged social status. They requested the opening of classes for both preschool children and adults. Responding to this call, classes commenced on August 6, 2006, with volunteer student teachers from Mindanao State University generously offering their time and service.
In response to the prevailing poverty in the area, the Bajau Village Learning Center offered classes free of charge. Children enrolled in the program received complimentary school materials to support their learning. In a spirit of reciprocity, members of the Bajau community contributed through voluntary service, offering their help whenever manual labor was needed.
Over the years, the structure required frequent repairs, as it was originally built with light materials. In 2012, through the collaborative efforts of Bishop Lampon of the Vicariate of Jolo, the Daughters of Charity, and the support of Antonio Cardinal Tagle, along with other kind-hearted contributors the project was brought to completion. With its two spacious classrooms, the school now offers children a safe and comfortable environment for learning.
As a Day Care and Kindergarten facility, it primarily welcomes children aged five and above. However, in the spirit of compassion, the school has also embraced over-aged learners—some as old as ten—who had not yet begun their schooling journey. Today, the school is home to 82 pupils, both boys and girls, each nurtured in a safe and welcoming environment.
