The SiGMA Foundation has taken another significant step in its mission to create sustainable, community-led change, officially inaugurating the Batiawan Community Centre in Zambales, Philippines. Designed to support the Aetas people and surrounding residents, the centre will act as a hub for education, cultural engagement and essential services, with an emphasis on empowering communities to shape their own futures.
Empowerment through local resources
Central to the foundation’s approach is working closely with communities to ensure projects are both relevant and sustainable. Fr Joseph Cremona explained, “We always work with the communities. What we have is what we share… We are trying to give them opportunity through their own resources, through their own richness which they have. So empowering them so that they can also earn for their living and have a good life.”
This ethos extends to healthcare, where plans are already underway to improve access. Local leader Jose Lawag, Captain of Batiawan, stressed the importance of a new health centre, “They said they will also donate a health center. If we also had a centre in Mamasigpasig… nearly 500 families could have their check-ups done there.”
For SiGMA Foundation Operations Manager Jessie Busuttil, the transformation has been remarkable. “Two years ago, this was just barren land. Now, seeing how beautiful and lively this place is… it’s a very big milestone for us and the Foundation.” The project is part of a development plan, with the current phase laying the groundwork for future facilities such as the Piro Formation Centre.
Building for the future
The centre’s design reflects SiGMA Foundation’s commitment to sustainability, incorporating spaces for workshops and skills training in areas like welding and musical instrument repair. H.E. John Busuttil, Ambassador of Malta to China and the Philippines, praised this forward-thinking approach, “They are making it sustainable… people are learning, creating, and also money generating. It will not just be a one-time thing. It will be self-sustaining and that’s really impressive.” Already, the community benefits from clean water via a 170-metre well, with plans for more infrastructure to support self-sufficiency.
Partners in progress
These developments are made possible through the support of sponsors like Match Liquidity. Executive Director Maryna Zhyla shared her gratitude, “We are so thankful to SiGMA Foundation to give us an opportunity… to be part of this charity.”
Executive Director at Match Liquidity, Renate Mikelsone, echoed the sentiment, “I’m super happy to be together with SiGMA Foundation, able to support the project.”
Keith Marshall, Chief Philanthropy Officer at SiGMA Foundation, emphasised the importance of these partnerships, “Match Liquidity have been with us from day one… Stage one has been completed, and by God’s grace, over the next couple of years stage two and three will complete the deal.”
A vision that keeps growing
For SiGMA Founder Eman Pulis, the project’s progress is a powerful motivator, “It gives me immeasurable pleasure to be back here a year later and see all the kids growing… This gives me the motivation to do more, to keep raising more funds with our charity auction and fundraising events.” The Batiawan Community Centre is a testament to the power of collaboration, vision and the belief that communities thrive when given the tools to direct their own futures.
The SiGMA Foundation’s work in Batiawan is just one example of its commitment to sustainable development. Join us in supporting these life changing initiatives and be part of building stronger, self-sufficient communities across the Philippines and beyond.
