The University of the Philippines Institute of Islamic Studies (UP IIS), through its extension project PADDUMAN: Promoting and Advocating Dialogue, Development, and Unity through Multisectoral Assistance and Nurturance, conducted a fieldwork in Sitio Poblacion, Barangay Siunugan, Municipality of Indanan, Sulu, from October 11 to 12, 2026. The two-day engagement aimed to sustain community dialogue, strengthen stakeholder collaboration, and identify development priorities in preparation for the proposed community facilities.
Led by Prof. Julkipli M. Wadi, Dean of UP IIS and project proponent, the fieldwork brought together community members, local government representatives, and security sector stakeholders to discuss proposed initiatives and assess site conditions.
The team coordinated with the local government unit of Sulu through the Office of Vice Governor Abdusakur Tan, the Sulu Provincial Police Office headed by PCol. Jeff Briones Uy, and the Philippine Army’s 11th Infantry “Alakdan” Division led by Major General Leonardo I. Peña. It also engaged with the Barangay Sionogan local government unit, represented by Barangay Secretary Amilyn Judda.
Community dialogue was central to the engagement, particularly discussions with residents involved in land allocation and the identification of local development priorities. These consultations highlighted the importance of addressing community concerns, clarifying existing land arrangements, and considering the needs of affected families as the project progresses.
A key accomplishment was the installation of two solar streetlights, with the technical expertise of Ar. Glenn Que and assistance from community members. The installation supports efforts to improve basic facilities in the area as preparations continue for the proposed community library and mini-museum.
The team also conducted an ocular inspection to assess land boundaries, road access, and the availability and condition of essential utilities. The inspection identified shoreline erosion caused by strong waves as a concern for both proposed structures and existing infrastructure. The mosque near the shoreline and a section of the main road showing cracks associated with unstable ground were identified as areas requiring further assessment and appropriate intervention.
Access to potable water also emerged as a priority. Existing wells have reportedly become saline, underscoring the need to explore the feasibility of excavating a deeper well to provide a more reliable water source.
During the final stakeholder consultation, discussions also focused on the area’s economic potential and opportunities for local development. This provided an opportunity to consider how existing resources and local conditions could inform future development initiatives alongside the project’s infrastructure and community-building efforts.
PADDUMAN is the third phase of the broader UP IIS extension initiative, Peace, Development, and Microfinance (PDM). The mother project seeks to support war-affected communities in becoming peaceful, socially and culturally vibrant, and economically thriving through stakeholder empowerment, self-help initiatives, and sustainable, knowledge-based community development.
Current PADDUMAN activities also include consultations with a Shari’ah counselor on Islamic matters concerning inheritance, succession, and waqf (endowment); coordination with the Cooperative Development Authority in Region IX on the requirements for establishing a cooperative; and engagement with local and national government agencies to support project implementation.
The October fieldwork underscored the need to integrate infrastructure development with sustained consultation, inter-agency coordination, and careful consideration of local environmental conditions. While the installation of two solar streetlights marked a tangible accomplishment, the assessment also identified concerns involving land arrangements, water access, and shoreline stability that require further coordination and planning.
As PADDUMAN moves forward, UP IIS will continue working with community members, local leaders, and relevant government agencies to address these priorities and advance the proposed community facilities. Through dialogue and collaborative action, the project seeks to strengthen local participation and support sustainable development initiatives responsive to the needs and aspirations of communities in Sulu.
Article by Kamaruddin Bin Alawi Mohammad, UP IIS UR II
Photos by Shariful Hashim Mansul, UP IIS SRA