In the quiet barangay of Cambanac, a quiet revolution is taking root. It isn’t being waged with protest signs or political rallies, but with vegetable seedlings, livestock, and the unwavering belief that a girl can be anything she dares to imagine. At the helm of this movement is Lerma Moore, the general manager of Bohol Coconuts and a two-term Barangay Councilwoman, who is on a mission to expand the horizons for the young women in her community.
For Lerma, the mission is deeply personal. Having navigated the roles of a public servant, a business manager, and a wife, she understands the multifaceted nature of a woman’s potential. While tradition in the region often steers young girls toward domestic life, Lerma is working tirelessly to ensure they see a wider menu of options for their future.
“Some little girls grow up wanting to be a mother and have kids, and that’s great,” Lerma said, her tone gentle but firm. “But we also have girls who want careers and that’s fine too.” It is this inclusive philosophy that drives every initiative under the Bohol Coconuts umbrella.
Sowing Seeds of Independence
Bohol Coconuts is not just about agriculture;it is a community hub designed to uplift families from the ground up. Under Lerma’s direction, the club has launched several initiatives aimed at financial stability and empowerment. Backyard vegetable gardens are encouraging families to grow their own food and sell the surplus. Animal husbandry projects provide another stream of income, while student part-time jobs offer local youth—especially girls—a chance to earn a living while staying in school.
Perhaps most significantly, Lerma has fostered a Women’s Club that serves as a support network for local mothers. It is a space where women can share resources, learn new skills, and find solidarity as they work to increase their family income. By assisting the mothers, Lerma believes she is freeing up the daughters to dream bigger.
“In the past, women here have been limited in terms of employment. They are often told that their place is in the home,” Lerma observed. “I want to change that. Women are not just housewives, anymore. I want our young girls to think about being lawyers, business women, and pilots. They need to know that those doors are open to them.”
A Trailblazer in Politics and Life
Lerma’s passion for equality is matched only by her integrity. In a political landscape where the Filipino tradition of vote-buying is rampant, Lerma took a stand that stunned her competitors. During her previous election campaign for the Barangay Council, she refused to buy votes.
“She is the engine that makes this club run,” said Coach Merv Moore, who has been married to Lerma since 1998. “She is passionate about providing more opportunities for females, and she is a trailblazer herself. While it is a Filipino tradition for political candidates to buy votes from their constituents, Lerma opted not to buy votes in the previous election and stunned other candidates when she won.”
That victory was a testament to her genuine connection with the people and her reputation as a leader who serves from the heart rather than the pocketbook.
Waiting for the Final Piece
As March approaches, excitement is building for the official launch of full operations at Bohol Coconuts. While the agricultural and women’s programs are ready to roll out, the sports department is momentarily on hold. The community is eagerly awaiting the return of Coach Merv, who is currently in Texas.
“Merv is on an important trip to see his sick, elderly father and raise funds for the club,” Lerma explained, a hint of anticipation in her voice. “He is working crazy hours because he believes in these kids. Once he is back, we can get the sports department up and running. Athletics are another avenue for our girls to learn discipline, confidence, and teamwork.”
For Lerma Moore, the work is just beginning. She dreams of a day when the young girls of Cambanac look beyond the horizon, armed with the knowledge that they can be lawyers, business owners, pilots—or happy housewives, if they choose. Thanks to her dedication, that future is no longer a distant hope; it is being planted, watered, and nurtured, right in their own backyard.
