In a short span of time, Marilou Lozano of Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro, has made her mark among the indigenous Mangyan communities of her town — and beyond.

Three times a week, she travels to remote barangays such as Panaytayan and Maunay to oversee a coffee project she helped initiate with her partners. There, she educates locals not only on the intricacies of coffee production but also on practical life skills to guard against deceit and exploitation.

Her engagement with the Hanunuo Mangyan and other Mangyan groups began unexpectedly, following a bout of depression after the closure of her business. A trek for a solar project by a non-government organization in Panaytayan about five years ago turned into a lifelong advocacy to uplift the lives of the Mangyan.

What began as a small-scale initiative has since expanded to other far-flung communities across Mindoro, bringing with it a sense of empowerment and modernity. Initially a volunteer, Lozano is now the Tourism Council president and head of the Community Development Secretariat of the local government. Her work often takes her deep into the mountains — journeys that require hours of travel by motorcycle or on foot.

The results of her commitment are tangible. In Mansalay, the economic condition of the communities she assists has visibly improved. She and her team have strengthened local coffee farming, cultivating both new and heirloom varieties. The introduction of solar power systems has not only provided electricity but also economic opportunities through modest user fees, instilling confidence and a sense of independence among the residents.

This, Lozano says, is the ultimate goal: for the Mangyan to become self-sustaining and self-reliant communities.

Her efforts did not go unnoticed. Lozano was recently named a finalist in the Gawad Pamana sa Sining at Kultura of the provincial government of Oriental Mindoro.

According to Mansalay Tourism, Culture and Arts Officer Rustico Generoso, Lozano is “a passionate worker with unwavering dedication to help the indigenous people of Oriental Mindoro.” In his nomination statement, he wrote: “Lozano’s selfless volunteer service, commitment to inclusive community growth, and collaborative spirit have significantly contributed to empowering our indigenous communities and preserving our local heritage.”