During the 1990s, conflict across Cotabato made it one of the poorest and most dangerous places in the Philippines. With some 10,000 fully-armed combat troops patrolling the city in response to rebellion, investment in the region had halted.

Against this backdrop, Kasiglahan Services Inc had a vision to begin the Kasiglahan Programs for disadvantaged youth, victims of abuse, those threatened by conflict and women in crisis. Their goal was to build a self-sustaining initiative to help the people of the region help themselves.

That was when the partnership with TRT began. Father Kevin Stewart from Kasiglahan Services Inc explains.

"Based on nothing more than a handshake and despite the fact that at the time we had no track record, TRT gave us start-up capital and interest free loans with no strings attached."

These funds were used to establish a non-profit business distributing products to retailers in often hard to reach areas across the region. It was truly an innovative idea where everyone wins. Manufacturers and retailers gained reliable distribution channels and local youth gained desperately needed jobs in sales, merchandising, truck driving, marketing and business administration.

The enterprise started with nothing and within six years it was turning over 75 million Pesos annually with all proceeds helping youth harmed by poverty and women in crisis. The success of the program over the years has inspired many other communities and corporations to get involved in similar programs.

"Through TRT’s operations in the Philippines I’ve come to understand the awful toll from years of conflict. To play our part in improving the lives of these wonderful people is truly a privilege. It’s all driven by the incredible commitment of Father Kevin and the team"
Domenic Romanelli, Managing Director, TRT

Today Kasiglahan Services Inc is a self-funded organisation that continues to do exceptional work in the region. This leap of faith in the 1990s led to programs that continue to help thousands of children and families break the cycle of poverty and take control of their lives.