As 2024 ends, Mindanao Climate Justice (MCJ) reflects on a year of breakthroughs and challenges, filled with stories of resilience, collaboration, and hard-earned lessons. Each milestone was a testament to the power of community and the courage of those fighting for justice in the face of adversity. Here’s a closer look at our journey this year and the lessons we carry forward.

Lesson 1: Strong Foundations Foster Lasting Change

What We Did:
At the heart of our work this year was strengthening the organizational backbone of MCJ. We finalized key frameworks, onboarded new staff, and built robust partnerships with allies like the Centre for Applied Human Rights (CAHR), University of York  and FreedomHouse. These efforts ensured that our initiatives were not only impactful but also sustainable.

What We Learned:
Even the most passionate advocacy needs structure to thrive. Clear communication, strategic planning, and a strong team allow us to respond to crises effectively while staying true to our mission. Building this foundation is an ongoing process, one that requires intentionality and patience.

Lesson 2: Community-Led Solutions Are Key to Resilience

What We Did:
From trauma-informed workshops for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) to consultations with Indigenous leaders, we prioritized listening to and learning from the communities we serve. Programs like the HRD Panalipod delivered direct support to 133 HRDs, emphasizing collective care and cultural sensitivity.

What We Learned:
Solutions imposed from the outside rarely succeed. By centering the voices and expertise of local communities, we not only address immediate needs but also empower them to lead their own advocacy and resilience-building efforts.

Lesson 3: Collaboration Magnifies Impact

What We Did:
This year, we deepened collaborations with 46 partners, from grassroots organizations to global advocacy groups. Together, we launched impactful initiatives such as the Talaingod 13 campaign and the Mindanao-wide Climate and Solidarity Conference, which brought together diverse communities for courageous dialogue and collective action.

What We Learned:
Collaboration isn’t just a strategy—it’s a necessity. The interconnected nature of climate and social justice issues demands that we work across sectors, geographies, and ideologies. Building trust and finding common ground take time, but the results are transformative.

Lesson 4: Visibility Fuels Advocacy

What We Did:
Through digital platforms, publications, and events, we shared the stories of Mindanao’s communities with the world. The launch of our website, coupled with social media campaigns, reached over 13,000 people and mobilized support for critical issues like Indigenous rights and climate justice.

What We Learned:
In an age of disinformation, visibility is a powerful tool. Telling authentic stories not only counters harmful narratives but also inspires others to take action. However, sustaining this momentum requires consistent engagement and innovation in how we communicate.

Lesson 5: Every Challenge is an Opportunity to Grow

What We Faced:
From addressing the unjust conviction of the Talaingod 13 to responding to the needs of displaced Lumad communities, this year tested our resolve. Limited resources and the growing risks faced by HRDs made our work more urgent—and more challenging—than ever.

What We Learned:
Adversity is inevitable, but it can also be a catalyst for growth. Each challenge pushed us to be more adaptive, resourceful, and committed to our mission. These experiences reinforced the importance of resilience—not just for the communities we serve, but also for MCJ as an organization.

Looking Ahead to 2025: Hope and Purpose

As we move into 2025, we carry the lessons of 2024 with a renewed focus on creating lasting impact. Guided by our mission, we aim to:

• Expand Interventions: Reach more Human Rights Defenders and Indigenous communities, amplifying their voices and addressing their needs.
• Strengthen Advocacy: Deepen our focus on Indigenous Peoples’ rights, climate justice, and building community resilience to ensure lasting change.
• Enhance Visibility: Share compelling stories and advocacy efforts through a stronger online presence, targeted communications, and direct community outreach.
• Engage the Youth: Inspire and train the next generation of changemakers through a dedicated internship and volunteer program.
• Foster Leadership and Resilience: Empower Indigenous communities to lead efforts in disaster preparedness, land rights, and climate solutions.

These commitments reflect our unwavering belief that justice and equity are achievable when communities are empowered, voices are amplified, and collaboration thrives.

Gratitude and Solidarity

None of these lessons or achievements would have been possible without the support of our allies, funders, and communities. Your solidarity fuels our work and strengthens our resolve to continue the fight for justice and equity in Mindanao.

Let us move forward together, carrying the lessons of 2024 as a foundation for a brighter, more equitable future.

PADAYON TA!