On August 22, 2025, JCI Puerto Princesa Oil launched Project ASSEMBLE (Assist, Empower, Better, Lead) Year 7 in Barangay Binga, San Vicente, Palawan. Aligned with JCI Philippines’ “Isang Bag, Hakbang sa Isang Pag-asa” Bags to School initiative, the event aimed to uplift Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities through education, health, and livelihood support.
Held at the Binga Gymnasium Covered Court, this year’s outreach benefited 72 elementary students from the Tagbanua Tandulanen tribe. Each child received a school bag, school supplies, a hygiene kit, and dental care essentials to support their academic journey and overall well-being. The event opened with a warm welcome from barangay officials, including Kagawad Aldrin Abian, followed by an inspiring message from JCI Puerto Princesa Oil 2025 President Bernie Barbas.
A standout moment was the cultural presentation by the Tagbanua Tandulanen performers, showcasing their traditions and strengthening cultural pride. The program was supported by key partners, including Agrinihan, KABUTE-han project, San Vicente Municipal Police Station, International Pharmaceuticals Inc., PADAC (Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Council) Province of Palawan, and PDEA (Philippines Drug Enforcement Agency) Palawan—all present to reinforce their commitment to community development.
Project Chairs John Villon and Karl Pe led Palarong Nayon, traditional Filipino games that encouraged teamwork and joy among the children. President Barbas also conducted a storytelling session, sparking imagination and curiosity, while Local Skills Development Director Edriane Ace Barone delivered a motivational talk to inspire students to dream big and believe in themselves.
Celebrating its 50th year, JCI Puerto Princesa Oil emphasized its ongoing commitment to community service. “Project ASSEMBLE Year 7 reflects our dedication to education, health, and empowerment. Together, we’re building a brighter future,” said President Barbas.
The project also reached 50 senior citizens who received hygiene kits, liniment oils, and free blood pressure checks. Barangay Volunteer Sanitary Inspector Perlita Roca demonstrated proper hygiene techniques, promoting health awareness among both young and old.
Despite the afternoon rain, adult-focused training sessions proceeded. JCI’s Emmanuel Agas introduced organic farming methods, while Jayson Lampago discussed mushroom cultivation as an alternative livelihood. PDEA facilitated a Gen-Zero Drugs campaign to raise awareness about drug abuse.
Mental health and disease prevention were also addressed. Kim Santos of Palawan State University led a session on mental wellness and resilience. BVSI Roca returned for an IEC on the Zero Malaria Palawan campaign, highlighting sanitation and disease control.
To promote nutrition and health sustainability, the team distributed hundreds of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and vegetable seeds to beneficiaries. Free haircuts and snacks added comfort and care to the day’s activities.
Closing the event, Project Chair John Villon thanked all sponsors and volunteers. In his message to the youth, he said: “You are full of talent and dreams. These tools and lessons are here to help you grow. Embrace your culture, believe in your potential, and never stop learning.”
Project ASSEMBLE Year 7 was made possible through the joint efforts of the Provincial Government of Palawan, LGU San Vicente, Barangay Binga, the Provincial Health Office, International Pharmaceuticals Inc (IPI), Pest Science Corporation, PhilipJas Travel and Tour, and the Provincial Department of Agriculture.
