Philippines

Fighting Poverty in the Philippines Through Education and Care

Poverty in the Philippines affects over 20% of the population and reaches as high as 75% in some southern regions. Rural communities are the hardest hit, with limited access to basic services and infrastructure. These areas are also highly vulnerable to frequent natural disasters, which further weaken already struggling families. That’s why the Sisters of Mary in the Philippines focus their mission on reaching these underserved areas.

Since 1985, the Sisters of Mary Philippines programs have provided life-changing support to children in need. They operate four residential schools: Biga Girlstown and Adlas Boystown in Cavite, and Talisay Girlstown and Minglanilla Boystown in Cebu. Each campus offers free secondary education, intensive vocational training, and a safe, nurturing environment for marginalized boys and girls ages 12 to 18.

Additionally, the Marie Doty Maternal and Children’s Infirmary in Minglanilla delivers essential medical and dental care to the boys. Today, the Sisters care for nearly 8,000 children from the poorest families across the Philippines—offering hope, dignity, and a path out of poverty.