In Barangay Pasil, New Lucena, SEA Inc. was like that reliable friend who always showed up with solutions and good vibes. But even the best of friendships can hit rough patches. Due to unforeseen issues, the barangay council cut ties with SEA Inc. “Daw kasakit ah,” joked one team member during the tense dialogue, “pero okay lang, at least wala sang breakup fee!”

Despite SEA Inc.’s attempts at dialogue, the council was firm in its decision. The team graciously accepted it, even if they left the meeting muttering, “Kung may closure na, dapat may kalipay man!”

The Pasil Women’s Power Move

Now, here’s where things took a turn that could rival any telenovela. The Pasil Women’s Association (PWA), one of the CSOs nurtured by SEA Inc., wasn’t having any of this separation nonsense. They valued the partnership so much that they practically staged their mini-rebellion. When the leadership seminar demanded by the PWA to SEA Inc. was about to be canceled, the women banded together.

One fiery member declared, “Indi na ya pwede nga indi kami kagamit sang facility kay ang ina nga lugar para gid sa tawo sang barangay! Kami nalang ang malisensya, ma’am ah!” (Translation: “We can’t be barred from using the facility because it’s for the people of the barangay! We’ll handle the permits ourselves, ma’am!”)

With their determination, the leadership seminar went on like a blockbuster movie premiere. It was a success, complete with laughter, learning, and a new level of camaraderie. “Daw kami na gid ang nag-organize sang SEA Inc.!” one member joked.

A Surprising Comeback

As weeks turned into months, SEA Inc. quietly continued its activities with the support of the Pasil CSOs. The team was hesitant at first. “Kapoy man magbulig kung gina-doubt ka na,” the municipal coordinator quipped. But the Pasil Women’s Association had a comeback: “Indi lang ini para sa amon nga grupo, kundi para sa amon nga kaugalingon nga pag-uswag!” (Translation: “This isn’t just for our group but also for our personal growth!”)

Their unwavering enthusiasm won SEA Inc. over. Leadership training, skills workshops, and community programs resumed, and the gym became a hub of activity once again. Eventually, the barangay captain approached the SEA Inc. community facilitator with an apology, explaining that the council’s earlier decision wasn’t entirely his own. In a surprising twist, he even provided chairs, tables, sound system, electric fan and other barangay facilities. In return SEA Inc. team continue to do courtesy call and maintain the good relationship with the barngay officials. 

Lessons Served 

Barangay Pasil’s story is a masterclass in governance and resilience. Here are the takeaways:

Real governance isn’t just in the council halls—it’s in the hearts and hands of the people. The Pasil Women’s Association reminded us that true leadership is about empowering communities to step up, even when the odds are against them.

Don’t abandon people who are eager to grow. SEA Inc.’s principle of never leaving behind communities that are ready to learn and thrive kept them anchored to Pasil, even when things got complicated.

Apologies and second chances can mend bridges. The barangay captain’s apology was proof that even the toughest challenges can lead to reconciliation. As they say, “Ang away may ending, ang serbisyo wala.”

Moving Forward with Purpose

Barangay Pasil’s story is a testament to SEA Inc.’s commitment to real, people-centered governance.

Sometimes, the road gets bumpy, but with humor, determination, and a heart for service, every challenge becomes an opportunity for growth.

As one of the PWA members aptly put it during a training: “Ang success ya, hindi lang para sa opisyal. Para ni sa tawo nga gusto mag-uswag. Indi ya pwede nga ang gym, amo lang ang mag-lose weight, dapat kita man tanan!”

In Barangay Pasil, SEA Inc. learned that when the people rise, so does the community—and that’s where the real governance happens.