Now that caring for the environment has become an advocacy for a few rather than an obligation to many, the Matanglawin Fisherfolks Association (MAFA) of Sitio Maladiona, Barangay Salvacion, Camarines Sur has chosen to be one with the few.

“Mahalin ang karagatan, Pangalagaan ang kalikasan” (Love the sea, take care of the environment) has been MAFA’s battle cry for 5 years now. Young and inexperienced as these 48 member-fisherfolks may be in running an organization, their genuine love for the sea and undying commitment to protect it make them veterans at coastal resource management.

“At an early age, about six, I experienced being in a war with my family. We were about to go home from Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, to Iligan City when suddenly somebody declared war and in a minute a house was burned, followed by another and so on. Knowing that I’m only six and witnessing these acts that disenfranchise us of the right to life, I was hysterical. I couldn’t internalize everything but my parents were beside me, never left me behind and showed to me that they’re strong and firm and that we could survive it. And yes we did. We were able to ride a native boat safely out of the place.”

This was an excerpt from the first essay contest I joined about five years ago, crafted from the experience as a child victim in armed conflict about seven years ago.