All Hands & Hearts (AH&H) teams are hard at work rebuilding Obi Integrated School. Because of our long-term presence in the Philippines, we were able to respond to the recent earthquake near Cebu Island while continuing to progress on the school infrastructure.
The progress so far is inspiring. Five resilient and sustainable classrooms are taking shape, with roofs now installed, plastering and framing nearly complete, and pathways freshly poured. The classrooms feature Amakan, a traditional woven bamboo material known for its sustainability, strength, and natural cooling; a beautiful fusion of local craftsmanship and disaster-resilient design.
Despite frequent rains, the determination of our local masons, volunteers and staff shines through every step of the process, from steady construction progress to moments shared with teachers and children imagining their new playground.
Recently, one AH&H staff member and four volunteers joined the Grade 4 class for an afternoon of fun with the school community. After sharing stories in small groups, students were invited to draw their dream playgrounds to accompany their new school buildings.
The visit ended with laughter and movement during a local game called Tao, Bahay, Bagyo (“Person, House, Typhoon”). Students switched places according to the teacher’s call, practicing teamwork, quick thinking, and just having fun together.
Together with local masons and volunteers, All Hands & Hearts is working hand in hand with the community of Obi to rebuild five typhoon- and earthquake-resilient classrooms, upgrade essential WASH facilities with renovated bathrooms and a new water filtration system for access to clean drinking water, and build the playground of their dreams.
Each day brings us one step closer to a school where children can learn, play and imagine their futures, safely and confidently, for generations to come.
