Norbiti Sali, 28 years old, is a solo parent to his two children. Norbiti, or who is fondly called “Biti” in the community, is a Sama Bajau who makes a living by selling fish in the city public market. He stands as the breadwinner for his 82-year-old mother, his siblings, and his children. Biti’s family is among the 300 Sama Bajau beneficiary households under the Sama Bajau Capacity Strengthening Project (SBCSP).

Recently, Biti took on a new role when he was elected as the Public Information Officer (PIO) by the SBCSP Beneficiaries in Rio Hondo, Zamaboanga.

“It’s challenging at times, specially for a timid person like me to be responsible for communicating updates and announcement to other beneficiaries. However, when I think the opportunity to assist my kasamahan (Sama Tribe) in getting more help, the tasks become easier and fulfilling,” said Biti.

He also added, “Aside from my family benefitting from the services of SBCSP, I am happy that my role enables me to help other people from my tribe. I feel that they trust me.”

2018 Jul SBCSP.1.1

On behalf of the Sama Bajau community in Rio Hondo, Biti expressed their gratitude for the valuable learnings and opportunities that were extended for their people through the SBCSP, specially for linking them to services for their protection and strengthened capacities.

The SBCSP is implemented by Community and Family Services International (CFSI) through the funding support of the European Union.

To learn more about the SBCSP, click here to view the Project Briefer.

This publication was produced with the financial support of the European Union. Its contents are the sole responsibility of CFSI and do not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.