Written by Bethany de Guzman
Christy Martillana is a teacher at San Miguel National High School, located on a small island in Albay, Philippines. Five days a week, Christy teaches music, arts, speech and health to around 120 students. She travels to the island sand back by motorboat, motorcycle, and foot for a total of around two hours a day. Her dedication goes beyond her lengthy commute – Christy is extraordinarily committed to giving her students the best learning environment she can possibly provide. As an experienced individual with a ten-year long history of teaching, Christy tirelessly works to educate the children of San Miguel island. When asked what her most pressing challenge as a teacher is, she responded that “Teaching isn’t too hard…the biggest issue we’re facing is the students’ lack of physical resources: water, classrooms, etc.” Advancing the students’ education is heartbreakingly difficult when their basic needs aren’t being met.
Nonetheless, Christy and other teachers continue to do their best to provide a place for students to learn. What motivates her to keep going? The students. Christy has a very special bond with her students. At times, even her home becomes an extension of the school, as students contact her for emotional support as they navigate through personal struggles. She is one of their most trusted adult figures, able to offer them guidance in and out of the classroom. “You know, Bethany, I’ve been teaching on this island for 8 years. They have my heart. The students really have my heart,” Christy told me with tears in her eyes. Her connection with them is unlike anything I’ve ever seen, and extremely priceless.
Though their financial status often bars the students from having the life experiences that most other children get to have, Christy has hopes for the future. She wishes all her students success, and a chance to continue and further their education. Beyond that, she wants her students to see all that life has to offer beyond the tiny island. The food, places, and beauty of the world. It starts with studying hard. It starts with helping them obtain the necessary resources to focus in class. Our water tank initiative aims to provide access to clean, fresh, drinking water for the community on San Miguel island, ensuring the health of students and increasing school attendance.
