To effectively manage the royalty, Leonardo founded MAFI, with multi-sectoral representations from both government and non-government sectors. Its goals are mainly to provide scholarship support to poor and deserving IP children; and, to improve the forest environment and unique bio-diversity of Mt. Apo, considered the mountain God (Apo Sandawa) by IPs living in it.
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“MAFI served as my ‘laboratory’ to deliver genuine and meaning public service, which was my frustration while in government. With sincere intentions and purpose, I realized that we could overcome obstacles, address misunderstanding and misconceptions, implement significant reforms, deliver results, and make a difference,” he said, adding that his community work had changed his world view, made him rediscover his purpose, and solidified his values.
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“Dealing with IPs has enabled me to acquire the virtue of humility, to be good, and believe in the virtuousness of my workmates. Although my job is challenging, it has inspired me as it is aligned with my core values,” said Jessmar, who now serves as MAFI’s program director.
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“I am thankful to MAFI for providing for my educational needs. It gave me the chance to finish my college education. I used to be shy then, but it molded me and developed my self-confidence. It trained me how to do basic office work. It also taught me how to mingle with others, and to be responsible, independent, and professional,” she elaborated.
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“I learned a lot in terms of effective organizational management in MAFI. As a matter of fact, I have applied my learnings from it in running the affairs of our city. Every time we have a major decision to make in our local government, I apply the ‘MAFI style’ of management—more efficient, quick, effective, relevant, and obviously, less bureaucratic,” he explained.
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At the outset, Gregorio Ipong, who served as former mayor of Makilala, congressman of second district of Cotabato, and vice governor of the province, opposed the planned construction of geothermal plants in Mt. Apo. It was only after exposure trips to other model geothermal plants when he later changed his mind.
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