Shattering Stereotypes with Faith: The Story of an Indigenous Island Educator

From the lush and culturally rich province of Palawan, southern Philippines hailed as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, emerges an inspiring story of resilience, faith, and identity. Merlisa Alnaan Buntang, a proud member of Palawan’s Indigenous community in Ransang, Rizal, overcame discrimination and adversity to achieve her lifelong dream of becoming a teacher.

Her journey shared through the Apostolic Vicariate of Puerto Princesa’s official social media account, has touched many hearts and serves as a shining example for Indigenous youth across the region.

From childhood, Merlisa was taught to believe in Ampo, a sacred presence honored in her Indigenous tradition. As she grew and encountered the Catholic faith, she discovered that true belief in a Creator knows no boundaries.

“I was often mocked for being Indigenous,” she shared. “Some people told me I’d never succeed. But instead of letting their words break me, I turned to Ampo—and God. I never stopped praying.”

Her education was marked by sacrifice. At Ransang South Elementary School, she walked long distances to attend class. Later, at Agricultural Science High School in Aborlan, she left her home and familiar environment, facing new challenges in a modern, unfamiliar world.

Still, she endured.

While studying at Western Philippines University, she pursued a degree in secondary education, majoring in Filipino. The road was steep with academic and financial struggles piling up, but prayer remained her companion through every hardship.

“There’s no contradiction between my Indigenous spirituality and my Catholic faith,” Merlisa said. “Even if we call God by different names or express our beliefs in different ways, both reflect our reverence for a higher power who deserves praise and thanksgiving.”

She credits the Marist Brothers for helping her reach this point. “I wouldn’t be where I am without them. They supported my education, cared for me, and loved me as if I were their own. I never once heard them complain, no matter how hard it got.”

More than just educators, the Marist Brothers taught her and her peers to value their roots. “They didn’t just help us go to school; they helped us keep our culture alive. Because of them, many of us are still pursuing our dreams without letting go of who we are.” 

In 2023, she faced one of the most important tests of her life, the Licensure Examination for Teachers in the Philippines. She prayed, “Ampo, please let this be my first and last time taking the LET.” On May 19, 2023, her prayer came true as she passed the exam on her first attempt.

“I couldn’t describe the joy in my heart,” she said. “I’m finally a licensed teacher. All the pain, sacrifice, and exhaustion have finally paid off.

Now, Merlisa dreams of empowering fellow Indigenous youth through education. She wants to write and teach stories that reflect her people’s identity and way of life, hoping to preserve the richness of Palaw’an culture while creating more opportunities for the next generation.

Her message to those who feel like giving up is, “Don’t give up. Nothing is impossible for someone with determination and faith.”

She also encourages her fellow Indigenous brothers and sisters, “Never be afraid to stand up for your culture and identity. We are all equal, and our voices matter.”

From the humble beginnings of a young Indigenous girl to becoming an educator with a mission, Merlisa’s story is a moving reminder that faith and perseverance can overcome even the highest mountains and that embracing one’s roots is not a weakness but a strength.