On February 4, 2026, the Barangay Hall of Damires, New Lucena did what it does best—it became a space for honest conversations. No grand speeches. No dramatic gestures. Just a circle of people willing to ask the hardest community question of all: “What worked, what didn’t, and what do we do next?”

The PIME Team Meeting under the SEA Bayanihan Program was called to review the Strategic Plan of 2021–2024. But what unfolded was more than a checklist exercise. It was a gentle reckoning—one that proved development isn’t always loud or linear. Sometimes, it arrives quietly, through persistence and participation.

Ms. Rosana Constantino of SEA facilitated the discussion, guiding the team through each dimension of the plan. As updates came in, one truth surfaced repeatedly: many programs did happen—but not always under the barangay’s banner. Several initiatives were implemented through the Municipal Agriculture Office, the Rural Health Unit, and even the Parish. As one member remarked with a half-smile, “Bisan indi aton ngalan ang nakabutang, basta may benepisyo ang komunidad, okay na ina.”

And that sentiment captured the heart of the meeting.

Faith That Walks, Even When Structures Pause

In the spiritual dimension, Damires revealed a faith that doesn’t depend on formal schedules. Catechism continues in schools with two dedicated catechists. Prayer meetings by Dios Gugma move weekly from one household to another—proof that spirituality thrives where people open their doors, not just church gates.

While monthly Masses and organized faith groups like CFC, SFC, YFC, and Handmaid of the Lord are no longer active, the house-to-house pilgrimage of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage continues to travel the barangay—literally and symbolically.

“Bisan wala na ang programa, ara gihapon ang pagtuo,” one elder shared. Faith, it seems, has simply taken a different route.

Practical Wins and Honest Lessons

On the societal front, the discussion was refreshingly candid. Integrated farming was deemed unfeasible due to rainfed conditions. Livestock programs struggled when Darag chickens proved too small—and too unpopular—for the market. “Gin-try gid namon, pero indi guid swak,” someone admitted, drawing knowing laughter from the group.

But there were wins worth celebrating. Backyard gardening continues through Hapag and school gardens. Weekly health consultations serve both children and adults. Zumba and healthy lifestyle programs are being proposed—not just for fitness, but for bonding, especially among senior citizens. Because sometimes, community building starts with music and shared sweat.

Culture, Governance, and the Value of Memory

Cultural documentation of heritage sites may not be feasible due to private land ownership, but honoring elders aged 80 and above has been a resounding success—complete with incentives and well-earned applause. Emergency drills are practiced. Scholarships and ALS programs have produced graduates. Irrigation has been rehabilitated—though the pump still needs repair, a reminder that progress often comes with fine print.

Proposals like re-organizing PWD and solo parent groups, conducting financial literacy workshops, launching a Damires Hymn contest, and reviving the Search for Mr. Damian and Iris added excitement to the room. These ideas weren’t just plans—they were invitations to remember who Damires is and who it wants to become.

The Real Challenge: Participation

As the meeting wrapped up, one hope echoed across the hall: stronger participation from CSOs in the Barangay Development Council and community activities. Because plans, no matter how well-written, mean little without people willing to claim them.

As Ms. Constantino aptly put it, “Development is not about perfect implementation—it’s about consistent involvement.”

In Damires, the SEA Bayanihan Program didn’t uncover a flawless track record. Instead, it revealed something far more powerful: a barangay that learns, adapts, and keeps showing up. In a world obsessed with instant results, that kind of commitment is quietly revolutionary.

After all, bayanihan isn’t always about carrying a house together. Sometimes, it’s about carrying the plan forward—one honest conversation at a time.