In the quiet corners of Northern Samar in the Philippines, where access to specialized healthcare is extremely limited, one young woman walks alongside families facing some of life’s toughest challenges. Jolina Maglente, a Social Development Officer with NORFIL Foundation, has spent the last five years bringing hope to children and youth with disabilities—particularly those born with clubfoot.

Through a partnership with MiracleFeet and PNGOC, NORFIL helps identify and refer clubfoot cases to the nearest MiracleFeet-supported clinic. This powerful collaboration allows families who either had no idea clubfoot could be treated or who thought treatment was financially out of reach to access life-changing care.

At just 26 years old, Jolina has already made a lasting impact. Based in NORFIL’s Enabling Communities for Inclusion (ECFI) Program in Northern Samar, she entered the field of community health motivated by a strong sense of justice and compassion.

“I care deeply about making sure every child, especially those with disabilities, gets the support they need to live a full life,” she shares. “Working with NORFIL lets me help families access education, healthcare, and a stronger sense of inclusion.”

Her journey began as a caseworker, conducting home visits and assessing the needs of children and families. The work quickly showed her the power of community-based approaches in creating real change.

The NORFIL–MiracleFeet Connection

NORFIL’s mission is simple but powerful: to protect and promote the rights of children through family-focused, community-based programs. While the organization does not provide direct medical treatment, it plays a crucial role in connecting families with care. NORFIL social workers pay home visits to families they have identified as needing extra support and help them navigate medical needs. For children with clubfoot, Jolina’s role is especially important as timely detection and referral mean that a child’s clubfoot can be corrected before they learn to walk.

“When we identify a child with clubfoot,” Jolina explains, “we help families understand the condition, explain that it is treatable, and guide them through the steps to get care.”

MiracleFeet’s local partner, PNGOC, provides free treatment using the Ponseti method, a non-invasive and extremely effective approach to treating clubfoot. MiracleFeet also supplies braces, medical materials, and helps cover treatment-related expenses. Together, NORFIL, PNGOC, and MiracleFeet are making sure no child born with clubfoot is left behind because of cost, distance, or stigma.

Jolina recalls a pivotal moment in her career working with a young boy whose parents were unsure how to help him walk again.

“He had clubfoot, and his parents didn’t even know treatment was an option,” she remembers. “With our support, he received care and the day he took his first steps without pain was unforgettable.”

Stories like this remind Jolina of the importance of early intervention. “It’s not just about walking—it’s about being able to go to school, play with friends, and live a normal life,” she says.

Facing Barriers, Building Bridges

In rural areas like Northern Samar, the barriers to healthcare are many. Families often live far from medical facilities. Limited transportation, lack of income, and low awareness about treatable conditions can delay or prevent children from getting the care they need.

“Some parents don’t even know what clubfoot is, or that it can be corrected,” Jolina says. “Others are afraid to seek help because of stigma around disability.”

Jolina also recalls a family whose religious beliefs initially led them to resist treatment. “They thought their child’s condition was part of God’s will and shouldn’t be changed,” she shares. “But we took the time to talk with them, respectfully. We shared success stories and reminded them that helping a child thrive isn’t going against their faith—it’s part of honoring it.”

Eventually, the family agreed to treatment, and the transformation was remarkable. “Now, that child is walking, playing, and smiling. And the grandparents who once hesitated? They’re his biggest supporters.”

Empowering Through Education

A key part of NORFIL’s work is helping families understand that conditions like clubfoot are treatable. “We explain that early treatment can make all the difference,” Jolina says. “We show them that this is a journey, and one they don’t have to make alone.”

She provides families with step-by-step explanations of the treatment process and connects them with local government units (LGUs) who provide logistical and social support. Through strong relationships with therapists, LGUs, and partner organizations like MiracleFeet, Jolina ensures that families receive continued follow-up and care.

The Road Ahead

Since NORFIL began working with MiracleFeet in 2023, access to clubfoot treatment in Northern Samar has improved dramatically. But challenges remain—especially in remote areas with limited healthcare personnel and infrastructure.

“We need more trained doctors, more clinics, and continued investment from the government,” Jolina says. “And we need to keep raising awareness so families know treatment is possible and available.”

Despite the challenges, Jolina remains hopeful. “What keeps me going is seeing kids grow more confident, take their first steps, and just be kids. It reminds me why this work matters.”

A Message to Parents

To parents who might be hesitant about seeking help, Jolina has one message: “Your child needs you to take that first step. Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s love. And early intervention can change everything.”

Her dream? A future where every child in the Philippines, regardless of disability or background, has access to the care they need—and the chance to walk confidently into their future.