One can describe a leader as a virtuous person who gives their all for the benefit of everyone; and in Barangay Magsaysay, a particular Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) parent leader fits with the description.

Florence Mongaya, 52, a mother of five is not just a parent leader.

“She also is Violence against Women and their Children (VAWC) Desk Officer, Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) President, Kalahi-CIDDS volunteer, and Magsaysay Women’s Association adviser. She always extended her hands to people who are in need, including us,” Mariel Bagaipo, a registered social worker assigned as Municipal Link Officer in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, stated.

This voluntary work is only an addition to her functions as an active Barangay Kagawad, handling the committee on health and social services. Every time there are disasters and calamities in their barangay, she never hesitates to help. She is a disaster-resilient woman possessing a strong character, thus during the onslaught of typhoon Odette two months ago, she was one of the responders in distributing the Family Food Packs (FFPs) and visiting her barangay constituents.

The disaster situation she experienced is still fresh from her memories, but is not a hindrance for her because she is equipped with knowledge on Basic Disaster Preparedness and Response, which she learned during years of training and seminars. This capability is already imprinted on her mind, most especially that she is one of the frontline responders.

“Being disaster-resilient means planning ahead of time in order to protect yourself, your family, and everyone from any harm, and recovering immediately from hazards, shocks and stress,” Florence shared in Bisaya.

For her, being resilient is cultivating self- awareness, practicing mindfulness, and knowing to trust oneself. She also stated that being a leader in the community is not easy, you may encounter difficulties at times but as long as you have the willingness and a heart to serve you can feel happiness.

Thus, Florence has lived with the motto that helping others without expecting anything in return is a fulfillment. In fact, she hopes to inspire others to do the same as well. ###(Social Marketing Section/DSWD Field Office Caraga)