We approach the complex problems that threaten the survival, sustainability, safety, and well-being of local communities on the island of Samar from a holistic perspective. We acknowledge the connectivity of different socio-ecological systems affecting each other. We believe that key local issues are linked to global realities like climate change and structural inequality with the interplay of the different spheres: the economy, environment, society, culture, and politics.

​We will address local issues through the continuum of active response, adaptation, mitigation and transformation.​

We will respond to local crises arising from vulnerabilities and hazards through our Humanitarian Quick Response Teams formed from local volunteers, trained staff and community leaders as partners. Our engagement with local communities does not however end with our humanitarian missions. We will facilitate the process of ensuring that sustainable solutions are started through the collaborative effort of all sectors affected by such crises or tipping points, and in partnership with those who can make change happen at different levels and scales. Through an effective & responsible governance framework of the natural assets of each community, we will work with these actors to initiate and make change happen. Through partnership agreements with local government units, the academe, private sector, religious groups, local CSOs and community based organizations and other stakeholders we will aim to build adaptive, resilient and sustainable socio-ecological systems. ​

We believe that human beings are stewards of the Environment, thus we bear the sole responsibility of caring, protecting, nurturing, defending and rehabilitating our own communities and natural endowments. We further believe that sustainability starts from changing mindsets, shifting human behavior and enabling people and communities to live in a more sustainable manner.

​We respect the integrity of local and indigenous knowledge systems, as well as the modern scientific knowledge derived from research and investigations. We know that resilient communities are often lead by citizens & locals who can give back to their community and pass knowledge through generations to come.  We will utilize these knowledge systems in a complementary manner, striking a balance where applicable.​

And lastly, we acknowledge that local problems require locally-driven solutions and actions. This will guide our processes and models, projects and initiatives, including scaling up or replications of our best practices.