via Graphic Plus (w/ OLFA) — Sometimes, in the midst of life’s storms and daily challenges, we forget that faith and love are still very much alive—especially in the places that the world often overlooks. But in Sitio Tuoy, Barangay Cuyambay, Tanay, Rizal, love truly flows. And it flows thanks to One Love For All (OLFA), a group that proves compassion knows no boundaries.
Since its founding in 2017, OLFA has dedicated itself to uplifting the Dumagat and Remontado communities of eastern Rizal. From culture and arts to environment and heritage, their initiatives go beyond charity—they create lasting, meaningful change.
As OLFA celebrated its 9th year of service, they expanded their mission to more remote areas. Working with TUCDUAN (an organization preserving the Dumagat Tribe’s heritage), OLFA discovered the harsh realities faced by Sitio Tuoy residents.
The Journey to Sitio Tuoy
Nestled along the river leading to the famous Daranak Falls, Sitio Tuoy is as breathtaking as it is remote. Getting there is an adventure in itself: a 30–45 minute ride in a monster jeep, navigating muddy slopes, shallow streams, and lush Sierra Madre landscapes. But beauty aside, daily life here is tough—limited road access, scarce electricity, and most heart-wrenching of all, a lack of clean water.
Residents rely on rainwater or make the risky journey to an open riverside spring. Witnessing this, OLFA volunteers were inspired by the resilience and gratitude of the locals. Their perseverance was a powerful reminder that hope thrives even in adversity.
Living Water: A Dream Realized
With the help of volunteers and generous partners, OLFA launched the “Living Water” project, a solar-powered water sanitation and filtration system that cleans water directly from the source. On December 14, 2025, the project was officially inaugurated with celebrations that included:
- Gift-giving
- Sharing God’s Word
- Planting fruit-bearing trees
- Fun games for children
It was a day full of gratitude, joy, and renewed strength.
Ramon Christopher “Toff” Castillo, OLFA Senior Volunteer, reflected: “The Philippines faces many challenges, but we, as Filipinos, are catalysts for positive change, each in our own way. Providing a potable water system in Sitio Tuoy proves that our spirit of One Love can bring light to unreached kababayans. With grateful hearts, we can achieve the impossible together. Instead of focusing on what’s lacking, ask yourself: what can I do to make a positive impact on the people I can reach? Imagine if this spirit touched multiple communities—our Philippines would shine even brighter.”
as he awards it to the tribal leaders of Sitio Tuoy.
A Community Reborn
For nearly a hundred families, clean drinking water is more than a convenience—it’s a renewal of spirit. Tribal Chieftain Antonio Delos Santos expressed: “We are thankful to God for the help He has given us through One Love For All. We will no longer struggle to have clean drinking water. This will give us the courage to face life’s daily challenges.”
TUCDUAN also recognized the project’s importance in preserving the culture of the Dumagat and Remontado communities. Michael John Anito, chair of TUCDUAN’s Indigenous People’s Organization, added: “This water project is a great help in taking better care of our way of life, and in doing so, preserving and strengthening the culture we have inherited.”
Lessons for Volunteers
The outreach wasn’t just life-changing for the community—it touched the volunteers too. One shared:
lasting mark on everyone involved. One volunteer reflected: “I thought serving in this community outreach was about sharing what I have, but I felt differently when I came here. I unexpectedly became a recipient of kindness, reminded that I am blessed beyond what I can imagine—and that I, too, need to be kind to face life head-on.”
Looking Ahead
As OLFA steps into its 10th year in 2026, its mission continues: seeking out communities in need, spreading love, care, and hope. The story of Sitio Tuoy is proof that even the smallest acts of compassion can create waves of change.
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