Around 150 children embarked on an exciting journey of exploring the world through Tiwala’s geography enrichment classes. Dubbed as “Expedition Earth: A Journey Through God’s World,” the classes were aimed at familiarizing children with different countries and cultures as they learned to say hello in various languages, dress up in costumes of other cultures, try out new foreign food, and draw different flags. The kids also got to hear about the status of evangelization in these nations and also pray for the people and God’s work. We hoped to impart through the classes the value of loving others who are different from ourselves, because God loves every person, regardless of race or culture. Please pray with us that these children will grow with a deeper gratitude of the freedom we have in our country to exercise our faith, and also a burden for those who have not yet heard the message of God’s love.

The Philippines is reported to be among the top 10 countries worldwide suffering from child online exploitation involving mostly boys and girls aged 10-14. Moreover, 8 out of 10 Filipino children are said to be at risk of online abuse. Filipino children are exposed to bullying, degrading language, and sexually-abusive photos and messages online. Thus, cyber violence is becoming a “fast-growing” element of child sexual exploitation.

In celebration of the Safer Internet Day every February, Tiwala conducted a series of sessions on Cyber Safety for the students of Cabangan Elementary School. Aside from sharing about online dangers, students were also encouraged to increase their protective behavior when going online and, more importantly, anchor their identity in who they are in God’s eyes. Four classes attended by a total of 152 students attended the seminars. We are thankful for the opportunities given to us to help more children become informed, responsive, and responsible citizens in the digital world.

Tiwala took advantage of the month of February to teach its high school scholars about the meaning of true love. Through an informal get together on Valentine’s Day, the staff shared with the teens the lessons they had personally learned in the area of love life, as well as what true love from God’s perspective, and how to distinguish this from the worldly definition of love. It was an enjoyable time not just in getting to know each other more but also in helping the teens build their own biblical convictions about relationships.

Several individuals and groups expressed their love by giving donations and extending practical help to Tiwala. For example, a mission organization based in California sent 5 boxes of teaching resources, brand new clothes, and school supplies. Moreover, several friends in Manila sent 6 boxes of toys, clothes, and books. We are truly thankful for these people God used as channels of His blessings!