Shades of Light

Mujahid Ampuan, 29 years old, a responsible father of 3 and a hardworking provider, formerly residing in Barangay Naga, Marawi City, whom was forced to evacuate on the 24th day of May 2017, one day after the clash between IS inspired group and military first erupted in barangay Basak Malutlut. 23rd day of May 2017 before the clash when he start buying goods to be sold in the market “padian” and as preparation for the fast coming Ramadhan when IS inspired group starts to invade Basak Malutlut. He and his family were not ready when the government forces announced to vacate their area, the evacuation was not planned as they forgot to bring with them their important personal belongings and goods as they expect that they will return after 3 days, without knowing that it will be a bloody war that lasts for 5 months.

He and his family first evacuated in Inudaran Kapatagan, LDS which is about 80 kilometers away from Marawi city, bringing only with them their available personal belonging that could fit only in their tricycle motor. They were among the residents of marawi where houses turned to dust. They arrived in Inudaran, Kapatagan empty handed where they temporary sought refuge in a small CFSI BRAC learning space that could cater only about 2-3 families, the absence of electricity in the municipality adds to their desperation where they sacrificed about 5 months walking in the dark, luckily he is among the beneficiaries who received Solar powered lights and charger, where they are thankful enough as it helps in their daily sacrifices in the absence of electricity. Now, they can walk in the dark going to their comfort rooms and can eat whenever they want. The provision of solar lights also helps them lighting their quarter especially when his children cannot sleep due to absence of electricity, in addition the solar powered light charger also helps them especially when their phone drains where they pay 10 pesos to charge for just 1 hour enough to charge a cellular phone for at least 50 to 80 percent. He added that the extended help for them is a souvenir that they will bring with them when they return to Marawi City soon, according to him the siege is unforgettable experience and nightmare and hoping that will end sooner. They extend thankful message to Ramon Aboitiz foundation and CFSI for the provided solar lights.