About Us

The Sandiwaan Center for Learning is a beacon of hope and educational innovation, situated in the heart of Smokey Mountain, Tondo, Manila. We are dedicated to providing holistic education to the underprivileged. We focus on inclusivity, integrity, empowerment, and sustainability to create meaningful change.

Our Mission, Vision, and Core Values

Mission

Our mission is to empower underprivileged learners by providing a tailored educational experience that directly addresses their unique needs. We integrate cutting-edge strategies, including our distinct Convergence Theory of Learning, which blends personalized learning paths with state-of-the-art digital tools and ingrained community values.

Vision

At Sandiwaan, we envision a world where disadvantaged youth not only accesses quality education but thrives through it. We are committed to making this vision a reality through accessible, high-quality education that empowers students to shape a sustainable future.

Integrity

We promote a culture of honesty and uphold ethical practices across all aspects of our operations, fostering an environment where moral education forms the backbone of learning.

Solidarity

We are committed to fostering a supportive and cooperative community, where everyone is encouraged to contribute and grow together, ensuring collective advancement.

Creativity

We nurture creativity and encourage innovative thinking to solve real-world problems, equipping our learners with the skills to adapt and excel in a rapidly changing world.

Our History

A Beacon of Hope in Smokey Mountain

Sandiwaan Center for Learning was founded in 1987 by Father Benigno P. Beltran, S.V.D., at the Parish of the Risen Christ, located in the heart of Manila’s Smokey Mountain. Once known as one of the largest garbage dumps in the world, Smokey Mountain was home to over 25,000 individuals who made their living from scavenging. Witnessing the harsh living conditions and the community’s need for sustainable change, Fr. Beltran established the Sandiwaan Center for Learning to empower the community through education and improve their socio-economic status.

Pioneering Educational Initiatives

The journey began in 1987 when Sandiwaan first introduced Day Care Services for children aged 3 to 5 in Barangay 128, Zone 10, near Smokey Mountain. This program aimed to provide a foundational education to the youngest members of the community.

In 1995, Sandiwaan, in collaboration with the Department of Education’s Bureau of Alternative Learning System (BALS), launched a transformative program for out-of-school youths. This program offered non-formal education that allowed participants to complete their high school education. Although initially met with limited success using traditional methods, the introduction of computer-aided instruction marked a turning point. Donated computers and digital learning software began to play a central role, significantly enhancing student engagement and success rates.

Expanding Digital Frontiers

By 1996, Sandiwaan had expanded its efforts with the Tuloy–Aral Program, and by 2000, it was offering the Department of Education’s Alternative Learning Systems for nearly a thousand out-of-school youths. This period also saw partnerships with local and international bodies enrich the learning resources with multimedia, interactive content aligning with the Department’s curriculum.

Additionally, Sandiwaan partnered with the Open University of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines to offer vocational courses in computer technology, automotive mechanics, and secretarial studies, further diversifying its educational outreach.

Embracing the Future with Technology

The successful integration of digital tools convinced the Sandiwaan team of the power of e-learning. This led to the development of an e-Learning Project aimed at transforming printed ALS materials into dynamic, interactive learning modules in core subjects. This initiative not only served older students but also benefited day care attendees, who used these technologies to learn basic skills like recognizing letters, colors, and shapes.

Today, Sandiwaan continues to innovate, using the Internet and mobile technologies to provide accessible, quality education across the Philippines. With a focus on raising critical, collaborative, and creative thinkers, Sandiwaan is committed to paving the way for marginalized youth to access the education they deserve, contributing to a more equal, preserved, and modern society.

Board of Trustees

Fr. Benigno P. Beltran, SVD

Fr. Benigno Beltran, SVD

Board President

Executive Director

The Founder and President of the Sandiwaan Center for Learning, which empowers marginalized communities in the Philippines through holistic education and skills training. With a doctorate in Systematic Theology from the Gregorian University in Rome, he has over three decades of experience advocating for social justice, particularly as chaplain to the scavengers at Smokey Mountain. Recognized with awards like the 2018 TOFIL Award, Fr. Beltran focuses on sustainable development by integrating education, technology, and community empowerment to transform lives.

Nerissa S. Beltran

Nerissa Beltran

Chief Financial Officer

Administrator

Administrator and Chief Finance Officer of the Sandiwaan Center for Learning, where she plays a pivotal role in promoting educational initiatives and fostering a supportive learning environment. A graduate of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with a Bachelor of Accountancy, she combines her financial expertise with a strong commitment to community development. Her leadership is marked by a dedication to empowering learners and enhancing educational access, helping to shape a brighter future for the community she serves.

Richard Dagelet, Jr.

Richard Dagelet, Jr.

Corporate Secretary

Corporate Secretary of the Sandiwaan Learning Center and a member of the TSPI Board of Trustees since September 2022. As CEO of eScience, he provides mobile solutions to over 70 businesses in healthcare and consumer goods. Dagelet has a notable IT background, having pioneered the first e-commerce service in the Philippines and holding a patent for location-based traffic monitoring. He is also actively involved in community initiatives with Ang Ligaya ng Panginoon Community. Dagelet holds a Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Management Engineering from De La Salle University.

Dr. Maria Luisa B. Mutia

Dr. Maria Luisa Mutia

Board Member

A prominent educator and former Department of Education division superintendent in Lanao del Norte, known for her commitment to peace education and community engagement. She has spearheaded various initiatives aimed at promoting intercultural understanding and conflict resolution among students, emphasizing the importance of a peaceful environment for effective learning. Her leadership in integrating peace education into school curricula has made a significant impact on both students and the broader community.

Dr. Ria Liza Canlas

Dr. Ria Liza Canlas

Board Member

A distinguished engineer and educator dedicated to advancing sustainable construction practices in the Philippines. As the Director of the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at National University, she fosters innovation through research and eco-friendly solutions, including her work with Po Lite Technology, Inc., which produces carbon-reducing construction materials. A member of the National Innovation Council, Dr. Canlas is committed to empowering future generations and promoting inclusive practices in the industry, with a vision of ensuring every Filipino has access to a "Po-lite house" that embodies resilience and sustainability.

Meet Our Team

Team Member 1

Norvelina B. Delos Santos

Child Development Worker

Team Member 2

Emilia C. Domingo

Child Development Manager

Team Member 3

Lorena M. Modino

Child Development Worker

Team Member 4

Roslyn N. Paza

Child Development Worker

Team Member 5

Antonio B. Macalalag, Jr.

Alternative Learning Teacher / Facilitator

Team Member 6

Andrew B. Macalalag

Alternative Learning Teacher / Facilitator

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