In the remote mountainous communities of Palauig, Zambales, midwives serve as the first line of healthcare for many Aeta families. With limited access to hospitals and birthing facilities, pregnant mothers rely heavily on midwives who travel across rough terrain and respond to emergencies at any hour. For many families, midwives are not only healthcare providers but also trusted members of the community.

Midwife Menchie described the reality of her work as being constantly on call for mothers in need.

“Napakahirap ng propesyon namin as midwife kasi ikaw yung takbuhan eh. First line of health services, ikaw ’yun—midwife.”

Even without proper equipment, midwives often respond to emergencies because they know that mothers depend on them. Their willingness to help despite limited resources has helped build a strong foundation of trust between midwives and Aeta mothers. The mothers value midwives not only for their skills, but also for the personal and compassionate care they provide.

“Lagi kong sinasabi na kailangan mong puntahan ’yon kahit wala kang gamit, kasi ikaw ’yung may alam eh.”

Beyond delivering babies, midwives also provide support to families who have little to no resources. Ms. Menchie shared that she sometimes brings basic necessities when visiting mothers.

“Mayroong time na nagpaanak ako sa bahay nila at nakita kong wala silang pagkain. Kailangan, kapag pumunta ka sa bahay nila, mayroon kang dalang noodles man lang, o kaya kape at gatas.”

For many Aeta mothers, the presence of a midwife provides reassurance during childbirth. Mothers often call on them during labor, knowing they will come as soon as possible.

“Kontakin lang po namin sila—’yung auntie ko po na midwife—agad-agad naman po silang dumarating kapag tinawagan po namin sila.”
— Nanay Rosalie G.

This accessibility builds a strong sense of trust between midwives and the community. The bond becomes even stronger when midwives share the same heritage as the people they serve. Midwife Ms. Elizabeth emphasized that trust plays a crucial role in her relationship with Aeta mothers, especially because they see her as someone who understands their experiences and way of life. This shared identity helps mothers feel more comfortable seeking care and guidance.

As Ms. Elizabeth explains, “Paniniwala ko, Ma’am, nagiging malaking tulong ako sa kanila. Kahit saan—sa kariton, sa papag, kung saan mo sila maabutan—magpapacheckup po sila, kasi tiwala sila sayo bilang kaparehas din nilang katutubo.”

For many mothers, the care they receive from midwives feels familiar and comforting, similar to the care they experience at home. This familiarity encourages them to seek help from midwives during pregnancy and childbirth.

Aeta mother Nanay Rosalie P. shared, “Kagaya din po ng pag-aalaga sa bahay at sa midwife, iisa rin po. Hindi naman nagkukulang ang mga midwife dito sa amin.”

Despite the many challenges they face, midwives continue to serve their communities with dedication and compassion. Their work goes beyond medical care, as they provide comfort, guidance, and reassurance during one of the most critical moments in a mother’s life. In remote mountain communities where healthcare access remains limited, midwives stand as frontliners, bridging the gap between mothers and the care they need. They are often the ones who remain when the road ends, ensuring that mothers and babies are not left to face childbirth alone.

As Ms. Menchie reflects on the unique connection they share, “Yung tiwala ng nanay sayo na hindi nila makukuha sa ibang health professional.”

In the mountains where access to healthcare is limited, midwives remain a constant presence, offering care, strength, and reassurance to every mother they serve.