Illuminating Resilience: PSVP and Diana McDermott Illuminate Hope for the GIYF-FFS Community

In a time when light has become both a necessity and a symbol of hope, the Philippine Solar Village Project (PVSP), led by its founder Ms. Diana Q. McDermott, continues to bring illumination and inspiration to the Gelacio I. Yason Foundation – Family Farm School (GIYF-FFS).

On October 21, 2025, PVSP once again extended its generosity by donating solar lights to the Mangyan and non-Mangyan students and teachers of GIYF-FFS. These simple yet powerful lights serve as a reminder that compassion can cross oceans and that sustainable action begins with a shared vision of care.

Lighting the Path of Service and Study

This donation came at a meaningful time. During the recent typhoon Opong, several areas experienced power interruptions, making it difficult for families to go about their daily routines. One family expressed their gratitude, sharing how the solar light became an invaluable source of brightness and comfort during the blackout.

Many of the student recipients at GIYF-FFS are staying with local families within the community (nakikipanuluyan) during the school week. In exchange for accommodation and meals, they help with household tasks and community activities. During weekends, they return to their homes—some in nearby barangays, and some in mountain areas.

While the community has access to electricity, the solar lights serve as valuable tools not only during power interruptions or typhoons but also in everyday life. They help families save on electricity bills, provide reliable lighting for studying and preparing meals, and support a more eco-friendly lifestyle that aligns with climate action goals.

For these students, the solar lights are more than just functional tools. They are symbols of empowerment and resilience, reminding them that even in times of challenge, light and hope can always be found.

One teacher beautifully expressed,

PSVP and Diana McDermott: Partners in Purpose

Since 2019, Ms. Diana Q. McDermott and the Philippine Solar Village Project (PVSP) have been steadfast partners of GIYF-FFS. What began as a solar light initiative has grown into a lasting relationship built on shared values—sustainability, service, and holistic well-being.

Ms. McDermott’s leadership reflects a deep understanding that uplifting communities requires both practical support and spiritual compassion. Beyond addressing the physical need for light, PVSP also fosters inner illumination—encouraging communities to live with gratitude, balance, and harmony with the environment.

This ongoing partnership reflects the true spirit of #13ClimateAction and #17PartnershipForTheGoals, uniting people from across the world in a common mission of love and empowerment.

Gratitude and Continuing the Ripple

The GIYF-FFS community expresses its heartfelt thanks to Ms. Diana Q. McDermott and the Philippine Solar Village Project for their continued generosity and heartfelt commitment to Filipino families.

Each solar light given is a reminder that small acts of kindness can spark great transformation. For our students—especially those who travel from the mountains or stay with foster families to pursue education—these gifts are reminders that they are not alone in their journey.

With every light shared, hope grows stronger, and communities grow brighter.

“When we share light, we share life.”🌞💡✨

With deep gratitude,

The Gelacio I. Yason Foundation – Family Farm School (GIYF-FFS) Community

#PVSP #GIYFHealing #SolarLightForHope #ClimateAction #PartnershipForTheGoals #MangyanYouth #EducationForAll #LightInService #EverydayGlimmer