Tampakan, South Cotabato – Life was far from easy for Emilissa Puli and her family in Sitio Sbangken, Tampakan. Each day was a test of perseverance, but despite the hardships, she held on to her dreams with unwavering hope.
“Hirap ang buhay namin noon, tapos pito pa kaming magkakapatid. Sobrang pagtitiis ‘yung naranasan ko,” she recalled, remembering how her parents worked tirelessly to provide for their family.
Emilissa’s life took a positive turn when she became a scholar of Sagittarius Mines, Inc. (SMI). The scholarship provided not only crucial financial assistance but also opened doors for her to pursue a brighter future filled with promise.
“Mabuti natulungan ako ng SMI simula elementary hanggang college. Nakapagtapos ako ng Bachelor of Business Administration, major in Marketing Management. Dahil sa tulong ng SMI, natupad ang mga pangarap ko,” she said with pride and heartfelt gratitude.
Like many Filipinos determined to uplift their families, Emilissa sought opportunities abroad. She worked overseas for two years before returning to the Philippines to continue building her career closer to home.
“Nag-abroad ako pero pagkatapos ng kontrata ko, hindi na ako bumalik. Nag-apply ako ng trabaho sa iba’t ibang lugar sa Luzon at doon ako nanirahan ng maraming taon, malayo sa pamilya ko,” she shared.
Her experiences in various workplaces—both in Luzon and abroad—taught her valuable lessons in resilience, discipline, and hard work. Yet amid these journeys, she realized something was missing: the deep sense of purpose that comes from serving and uplifting her own community.
“Mahirap ang malayo sa pamilya. Kaya noong nagkaroon ako ng pagkakataon na makauwi at makapagtrabaho sa SMI, hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip,” she said.
Returning to Tampakan was a meaningful homecoming for Emilissa. This time, she joined SMI not just as a beneficiary, but as an agency-assigned Community Relations Assistant. In this role, she helps strengthen the relationship between the company and its host and neighboring communities. Emilissa now engages with students, families, and Indigenous Peoples (IPs), many of whom remind her of her own humble beginnings.
“Ang SMI ang tumulong sa akin noong bata ako hanggang nakatapos ako ng pag aaral ko, at malaking bagay na makatrabaho ka sa kompanyang gaya ng SMI. Natulungan ako noon, at ngayon, may pagkakataon akong tumulong din sa iba, nang hindi na kailangang lumayo sa pamilya ko at sa lugar kung saan ako lumaki,” she expressed warmly.
Today, Emilissa stands proud as an inspiring example of how education and opportunity can truly transform lives. From a determined SMI scholar to a dedicated professional serving her community, her journey embodies Sagittarius Mines, Inc.’s commitment to education, empowerment, and sustainable development for the people of Tampakan and its neighboring communities.
“Salamat SMI sa pagbigay ng magandang opportunity sa akin lalong lalo na ang trabaho na meron ako ngayon, hindi lang ako ang natulungan niyo, kundi pati na din ang buong pamilya ko,” she added earnestly.
Emilissa’s story is a beacon of hope—a powerful reminder that with determination, support, and the right opportunities, anyone from the community can rise and give back, inspiring others to follow their dreams without losing sight of their roots. (30)
