I-Witness: ‘Teacher Annie,’ a documentary by Kara David | Full episode (with English subtitles)

Summary

This inspiring video follows the journey of Teacher Annie, who teaches in the remote community of Labo in Bansod, Mindoro Oriental. Despite the difficult terrain, lack of basic resources, and challenges faced by the Mangyan indigenous people, Teacher Annie’s dedication to her mission shines through. She teaches children and adults alike, bringing education to those who otherwise might not have access. The story highlights her sacrifices, the deep bond she forms with the community, and the resilience of the people, including a young girl, Dina, who struggles to care for her sick mother while balancing education. Teacher Annie's commitment to the Mangyan people demonstrates the true meaning of selflessness and the transformative power of education.

Takeaways

• 😀 Teacher Annie teaches in a remote and dangerous area of Bansod, Mindoro Oriental, where the journey involves crossing rivers and mountains.
• 😀 The community in Labo, a small Mangyan settlement, is isolated with no electricity or clean water, but the people share what little they have.
• 😀 Despite the hardships, Teacher Annie and her co-teacher Cristel continue to teach the Mangyan children, making weekly trips to the village.
• 😀 Teacher Annie has been a private school teacher before but chose to teach the Mangyan children, driven by a strong sense of duty and compassion.
• 😀 Dina, a 20-year-old Mangyan woman, became Teacher Annie's student, despite being told by others that she was too old to learn.
• 😀 Dina's family lives in poverty, and after her father's death, she became the caretaker for her sick mother, who suffers from pneumonia.
• 😀 Teacher Annie and her co-teacher Cristel offer free lessons to the Mangyan adults, helping them learn basic skills like reading and writing.
• 😀 The Mangyan community has a strong sense of sharing; even in their poverty, they ensure that everyone gets a share of any food given to them.
• 😀 Despite the overwhelming challenges, Dina walks long distances to buy medicines for her sick mother, making do with a small income from selling bananas.
• 😀 Teacher Annie was offered a promotion to teach in a more comfortable school in the plains, but she chose to remain with the Mangyan community, driven by a deep connection to them.

Q & A

Why does Teacher Annie choose to teach in Labo, Mindoro Oriental despite the challenges?

Teacher Annie chooses to teach in Labo because she is driven by her mission to bring education to the indigenous Mangyan community. She believes that education is the key to transforming lives, even though it means enduring harsh conditions like crossing dangerous rivers and walking through difficult terrain.

What are some of the obstacles Teacher Annie faces while teaching in Labo?

Teacher Annie faces several obstacles, including dangerous travel conditions, a lack of basic amenities like electricity and clean water, and the challenge of teaching multiple grade levels in a single classroom. Despite these challenges, her dedication to her students keeps her going.

How does Teacher Annie's teaching impact the community in Labo?

Teacher Annie's teaching goes beyond just providing academic lessons. She becomes an emotional support system for her students and their families. Her dedication and selflessness create a lasting impact, inspiring the Mangyan people to value education and community support.

How does the Mangyan community show its appreciation for Teacher Annie?

The Mangyan community shows its appreciation for Teacher Annie through their warmth and hospitality. Despite their own hardships, they share what little they have, such as food, with Teacher Annie and her co-teacher. The community values her presence and the positive changes she brings.

What does Teacher Annie's relationship with Dina reveal about her teaching style?

Teacher Annie's relationship with Dina shows that she is not just a teacher but also a mentor. Teacher Annie recognizes Dina's potential, even when others had dismissed her. Through patience, encouragement, and personal connection, Teacher Annie helps Dina overcome her fears and embrace her education.

Why does Dina, despite being 20 years old, still attend kindergarten?

Dina attends kindergarten because, in her community, education was previously restricted for girls. It was only after Teacher Annie’s arrival that Dina had the opportunity to go to school. Her story reflects the difficulties many in her community face in accessing education.

What role does Teacher Annie's faith play in her work with the Mangyan people?

Teacher Annie’s faith plays a significant role in her work as it helps her overcome her initial fears and prejudices about the Mangyan community. She admits that she was initially afraid of them, but her time spent with the community taught her to accept and embrace them.

What financial challenges do the Mangyan community members face, particularly Dina?

The Mangyan community faces significant financial challenges. Dina’s family struggles to afford basic medical care, such as antibiotics for her sick mother. Dina also works hard to support her family, often missing school to gather resources, such as saging (bananas) to sell, but still remains committed to her education.

How do Teacher Annie and her co-teacher support Dina outside of the classroom?

Teacher Annie and her co-teacher, Teacher Cristel, provide support to Dina outside of the classroom by offering food and basic supplies. They also help her by giving her advice and practical support when needed, showing their commitment to her well-being beyond academics.

What decision does Teacher Annie make regarding her future, and why?

Teacher Annie chooses not to accept a position in a more comfortable, urban school. Despite being offered a better job in a more comfortable setting, she prefers to stay with the Mangyan community because she feels a deep sense of responsibility towards them, and her work there gives her a unique sense of fulfillment.