From Displacement to Renewal: Inday Radia’s Journey of Growth

At 75, Inday Radia carries memories of a home she once loved in Norhaya Village, Marawi City—a place reduced to rubble during the 2017 Marawi siege. When the fighting erupted, her family lost everything. Forced to flee, they found themselves starting over in Samaritan Village, Lumbacatoros, Saguiaran.

Life in displacement was harsh. Each day was a test of endurance, even for the simplest needs. “There was some assistance given to us,” Inday recalled, “but it was not enough to truly sustain our daily needs.” Meals were often uncertain, and hope felt distant.

Then came a turning point. JRS Philippines arrived in their community, bringing not only livelihood support, but opportunities to rebuild lives. For Inday, one particular program rekindled something she thought she had lost: her love for gardening.

“I used to tend small plants before, but here, there’s hardly any land,” she said. JRS Philippines introduced her to bottle gardening—a simple, practical way to grow food in tight spaces. “They showed us how to use bottles, which crops grow well in containers, and even how to make organic fertilizer,” she explained, her eyes brightening at the memory.

Soon, her modest garden was thriving with tomatoes and pechay. “If we don’t have anything to cook, we can always rely on the vegetables we grow,” she shared with a gentle smile.

As her plants flourished, Inday began to expand her garden, transplanting them to a small patch of soil behind her house. What started as a few containers became a sustainable source of food.

And then, something beautiful happened. Her garden fed more than just her family—it began to nourish her community. When a neighbor lacked food, Inday shared her harvest. What began as a survival measure blossomed into a quiet act of solidarity.

JRS Philippines’ support reached beyond gardening. Inday learned about climate change, its causes, and how everyday choices can make a difference. “I used to throw plastics anywhere,” she admitted, “but now I’ve reduced my plastic use and started proper waste management. It’s better not just for my family but for everyone around us.”

Today, Inday speaks with deep gratitude. “Because of JRS Philippines, we now have food to rely on and a small livelihood when times get tough. The climate change sessions gave me new knowledge. Their support has truly improved our lives.”