Masine: Q1, 2023

MASINe. MASINe.

suffering with hope

Andnotonlyso,butwegloryintribulationsalso:knowingthattribulationworkethpatience; andpatience,experience;andexperience,hope:

-Romans5:3-4(KJV)-

The writer of this scripture is a man named Paul, and in this letter, which was written about what Christianity is, this time the scripture is a passage that talks about the characteristics of the life of faith. Let l h i f h d h l i ll i h xt of this passage.

and pain suffered because of one's faith.

e faithfully unmoved. It is an active act of will without yielding.

ous conviction that a Christian gain by her faith tested.

hat those justified by faith will be joined to perfection of the Last Day.

Thinking of it this way, the absence of tribulations and the perseverance that accompanies it means that one is not living as a true Christian, and thus one does not have faith conviction.

And it means that we are living without hope in Christ.

The world we live in is supposed to be a world full of hope, but it is not because each one of us does not have hope in Christ. In order to change this world into a world filled with hope, each one of us needs to be transformed in Christ and live a life filled with love.

You can show that love by supporting the activities of this organization.

Letuscooperatetogethertobuildaworldfilledwithhope.

ENGR. TAMOTSU SAKAI | holpfi Executive director

A CELEBRATION OF THANKSGIVING FOR GOD’S GOODNESS

And it indeed worked out for God's best for the past six years in the community of Alsabi and it shows to testify the goodness of God as the people walked towards the fulfilment of the vision of the community. This vibrant community has experienced remarkable progress and transformation, attributing their success to God's abundant blessings and as we all have gathered together in thanksgiving and celebration, the spirit of gratitude permeates every corner, filling their hearts with joy and appreciation for the journey they have embarked upon.

A day of celebration. June 21st was filled with joy and thanksgiving to the Lord, a day of praising the Lord for His guidance and blessings throughout HOLPFI and Alsabi Community’s partnership journey. The community together with HOLPFI prepared the day for the simple yet full of love celebration as an offering to the Lord

The morning of the 21st paved the way for the program proper as it focused on praising and worshiping the Lord through songs and prayers. Present as well are the barangay officials headed by Brgy Captain Restituto Morfe and his councilors. The presence of the ALS teachers are also acknowledged as them being the teachers of ALS who also have the heart for the community. Two from Japan International Food for the Hungry graced the celebration with their presence, Ms. Yoko Asano and Ms. Hikaru Yanase, who also gave their message to the community people

Pastor Santiago “Santi” Yagusnay, one of the former pastors in the community shared the word of the Lord during the program and put light to the things he remembered learning which includes SALTY and LIGHTS in which the audience responded gladly that they do remember in which Pastor Santi also gave his thanks to the organization for their continued support to the community.

As the program continues, the community people were given the opportunity to share their testimonies about all the changes that have happened in the community. Pastor Feng, Kuya Lino, and Tatay Salino expressed their gratitude to the Lord, for each of the leaders who spoke, the very gist of their messages speaks of the change that has happened in their community and their appreciation for the partnership with HOLPFI as transformation has indeed been visible. A video presentation was then shown to the people The video showed the community transformation from 2015 up until 2023. Photos of the children, the mamás (fathers), the minás (mothers), the leaders and all of the community from the moment they have started up until today in which their vision of having a school is already established. The room was filled with smiles and laughter as all reminisced the past. God is indeed so good to His people.

The next part of the program also shows one of the important points of the ceremony, which speaks of the value that we should become people who can help others as we have been helped by God's grace. A foot washing ceremony commenced led by Sir Tamotsu Sakai together with the rest of the staff. The gospel of John in the Bible recounts an incident during the Last Supper where Jesus humbly washes the feet of His disciples. This event is described in John 13:1–17, specifically in verses 13:14–17.

During the customs of that era, it was customary for a servant to wash the feet of guests when they entered the Upper Room. Therefore, technically, it was not necessary for Jesus to clean the disciples' feet. However, Jesus deliberately chose to do so to convey a powerful message about the importance of humble service towards others. And this is what was portrayed during this part in the program. The leaders were also asked to choose someone whom they will wash as well and it can be seen how solemn and serene the ceremony has been.

"We know that God works all things

"We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called love God, for those who are called according to his purpose." according to his purpose "

--Romans 8:28 Romans 8:28

ALSABI COMMUNITY 2023 - A day of celebration with the community people, giving thanks to the Lord and His goodness,June 21

Leaders were also recognized during the event as they were given ribbons and awards which distinguishes them to be excellent leaders of their own. Truly exceptional. From early leadership training to present leaders knowing and already understanding how it is to lead and to come together to achieve their vision, they have indeed excelled in this area and we believe that they will continue to excel and flourish.

Of course with this celebration comes the coming together and enjoying a feast. The community people together with HOLPFI prepared the savory food and specialties for all the people that are present in the celebration: guests and tribe people from other communities. The expression on the faces of the people shows how much they enjoyed this feast.

The afternoon then was spent up close and personal between the people of Alsabi and HOLPFI. A heartfelt signing of commitment to their vision commenced and the people have gathered and signed the tarp where their vision is clearly laid out. The afternoon also included raffle draws and fun games in which everyone gladly participated, together with the sisiyans (children) and of course the teachers after their classes had ended.

The celebration extended up until before midnight, in the middle of the bonfire, all came together and once again sang praises and worship to the Lord.

Groups, husbands and wives, solo acts. All this, an offering to the Lord for His goodness and faithfulness. The day ended with a prayer once more, filled with love and thanksgiving unto Him.

More than anything else, it is indeed the presence of the Lord in Alsabi that we celebrate this momentous event. His faithfulness and goodness has been evident and felt for the past six years and there might be challenges and hurdles that the partnership of HOLPFI and Alsabi went through, the joy of the Lord has been our strength. His grace was sufficient. His mercy was never ending. His provision has always been there. And indeed, He never left nor forsaken His people. He is good.

It is not the end, but only a beginning of witnessing God’s goodness in the community life of Alsabi. It is our prayer that it doesn’t stop here, but it will go forth from here, to other communities, impacting each other’s life and continuing the work that God has started.

From the words of Kuya Arman Sadiwa, “Kung may kahirapan, may kaginhawaan (If there are hardships, there is also relief)”. The Alsabi community has gone through a lot, that’s for sure, but God has been their rock and their community is indeed a testimony that the moment we hear and obey His word, nothing is impossible.

All the honor and glory is to God!

EMPOWERING EDUCATION: EMPOWERING EDUCATION: EMPOWERING EDUCATION:

Six years ago, the community of Sitio Alsabi responded to the call of the Lord with the vision of the community in regards to education from a place of walking for hours under the sun, crossing the river multiple times, muddy and rocky tracks going to school, to waking up and not having to worry about walking for hours; this has been the fulfilment of it. To have a school in their community and behind the learning of the children are two of the dedicated teachers who’s heart for teaching and the children is immense and incomparable.

The children of Alsabi call them “Ser”. Sir Ton Francisco and Sir Jaymark Malimata, together with 3 more teachers, Madam Rubilyn Biti, Madam Welyn Salgado and Madam Marlyn Sadiwa who are all native to the Tau-Buhid tribe. The misters have been teaching for a few years now in the community and to witness their heart for the children is amazing. Alsabi Elementary School, nestled in the heart of Sitio Alsabi, Brgy. Fortuna, Socorro, Oriental Mindoro, is a place where hope and education intertwine to shape the future of its students.

And in the forefront of this are the remarkable teachers, Sir Jeymark Malimata and Sir Ton Francisco, who have dedicated themselves to nurturing the young minds in their care Through their unwavering commitment and the support of the organization as the partner of the community, they have overcome numerous challenges and helped in the transformation of the lives of the children and in the fulfillment of the vision of the community.

As an educator in Alsabi, Sir Ton faces various challenges daily. Limited resources and sometimes the lack of internet connectivity hinder the teaching process Moreover, the school's location, being far, also is prone to floods and other natural calamities, making accessibility difficult. Additionally, the students' mother tongue poses a unique obstacle to teaching them new concepts effectively.

FULFILLMENT OF A VISION FULFILLMENT OF A VISION FULFILLMENT OF A VISION

Despite these hurdles, Sir Ton and his fellow teachers persevere. They continuously study, interact with parents and students during breaks, and develop strategies to bridge the language barrier. For example, they create stories in Tagalog translated into Tau-buhid, allowing both teacher and student to understand the lessons better.

Sir Jeymark Malimata, another dedicated teacher at Alsabi, has been teaching there for nearly four years. He finds motivation in witnessing his students' perseverance and their eagerness to acquire knowledge. One of the biggest challenges he faces is language proficiency. The Tau-buhid dialect, which the students predominantly speak, requires continuous study and adaptation on his part to effectively communicate with them. However, Sir Jay Mark's passion for education fuels his commitment to empower his students and provide them with opportunities to excel.

The teachers' dedication is amplified by the support of Hands of Love Philippines Foundation Inc. (HOLPFI), and it goes the other way around. As per the teachers, the organization has served as a guiding light, ensuring that education reaches even the most underserved areas. The teachers express their immense gratitude for HOLPFI's continuous assistance, ranging from administrative support to ensuring the teachers' welfare. They also expressed that without HOLPFI, the educational progress achieved in Alsabi would not have been possible.

EDUCATION - (Left) The school in Sitio Mayi back in 2018 built by the community people, (Right) Present school building in Sitio Alsabi donated by the local government of the Municipality of Soccoro for the people of Alsabi

WE ARE FAMILY- (Left) Sir Ton, (Right) Sir Jaymark - Both teachers giving free haircuts to their students in Alsabi Elementary School

Sir Ton and Sir Jaymark also shared the impact of the partnership between HOLPFI and the community on the wholeness of the community and even in the school. They express deep gratitude for HOLPFI's presence and support, highlighting how the organization has been instrumental in uplifting the community and facilitating the establishment of a formal school in Alsabi.

In Sir Ton’s words, "HOLPFI has been the foundation of the community, serving as a partner in building everything. They have also been their guiding light. In all their needs, they suggest and provide possible solutions, identify areas for improvement, and with the help of HOLPFI, we now have a new school. As we can see, we have school buildings now through the assistance of HOLPFI. We admit that without HOLPFI, none of this would be possible."

"It is a very well-organized organization, teaching the community to make unified decisions, providing assistance for the development of the community, and even in the school.”, Sir Jaymark added.

The teachers acknowledge the challenges they face but remain optimistic about the future, believing that with HOLPFI's continued support, regardless of their exit from the community, the development and relationship will continue.

Looking ahead, Sir Ton and Sir Jay Mark have dreams for their students and the school They envision a future where their students graduate, become professionals, and contribute to the betterment of their community Even if only a few students achieve this, it would be a source of immense pride for the teachers They firmly believe that HOLPFI's presence and support will continue to play a pivotal role in their journey towards realizing these aspirations

The establishment of Alsabi Elementary School serves as a testament to the greatness and goodness of the Lord through the vision of the community. The school represents the tangible result of HOLPFI's support and collaboration with the community. Through the guidance and strength God has provided for HOLPFI, indeed, the organization has played a crucial role in the establishment and development of the school, providing assistance in paperwork processing, land acquisition, and construction.

The relationship between Alsabi community and HOLPFI has brought about significant positive changes, with the school now having functional classrooms and increased student enrolment.

The community, including both teachers and parents, recognizes and appreciates the importance of education Alsabi Elementary School stands as a symbol of the community's progress and the potential for further growth and development, thanks to the relationship and partnership between Alsabi and HOLPFI. Indeed, a God-given relationship that will definitely last for long.

S T A N D W I T H U S I N P R A Y E R

A visit back in April 14-19, 2023 made it clear how the community of Faglibwan exudes warmth, determination and the heart for progress. Drought and hunger may have stricken them, but what arises is the faith of the community

As shared to them during their last Leadership Training 2022, development can be achieved if the mindset of the people is focused on what they can do in the community with what they already have. A sense of ownership in their community. And this is something that we continue to work and pray for, for the continuous breakthrough of the community as they move towards their vision

One of our purposes here on earth is to serve others. This is our mission in life to do good by forgetting ourselves and not expecting in return or reward from others (Luke 6:35-36).

Rather than pushing projects on the community, HOLPFI encourages community members themselves to assess and examine their present situation. It emphasizes the importance of utilizing the resources and potential given by God within the community, instead of relying solely on external resources. By tapping into the community's inherent abilities and resources, true development of the community can begin and this is the mission that HOLPFI that commits to. To see communities in this light, working towards their progress with the capabilities and resources that God has given them.

Faglibwan is in God’s hands and God is always in control. HOLPFI remains unwavering in its dedication to serving the community, persistently offering guidance and support to help leaders and the community recognize the significance of the Vision of Community in establishing the Kingdom of God within their community.

BLESSED EDUCATION PROGRAM SCHOLARS AND PARENTS SPEAKS...

Hands of Love Philippines Foundation Inc., for years, has been a partner of the communities of San Andres, Hagnayaan and Sido with a mission of giving the community the opportunity for higher education to enable students to have stewardship over God’s given talents and develop the capacity of the children through education.

These remarkable groups of Tagalog and Mangyan scholars and their parents have indeed emerged, representing a beacon of hope and enlightenment for the communities. Inspired by their heritage and driven by hope, these parents and scholars embrace the concept of being both "salt" and "light" in the world, worldview and the kingdom of God, learning and having a new perspective in life, using education as a powerful tool to uplift their lives and in the future, their communities and create lasting change.

SALTY/MAALAT

“YOU ARE THE SALT OF THE EARTH. BUT IF THE SALT LOSES ITS SALTINESS, HOW CAN IT BE MADE SALTY AGAIN? IT IS NO LONGER GOOD FOR ANYTHING, EXCEPT TO BE THROWN OUT AND TRAMPLED UNDERFOOT.” - MATTHEW 5:13

Serve first One must be kind and know how to interact with fellow youth and be respectful to those older than us It is also necessary to engage properly with your classmates and friends - Miami, Scholar

I will be SALTY to my family, fellow parents, and others by participating in all programs I will think and plan for what needs to be done in life I will be loving to everyone, at all times, to everyone, yesterday and any person, love must be present All tasks and programs need to have corresponding actions I will serve others and my family wholeheartedly, with love, and all decisions or actions in my life must be planned - Gerlita, Parent

“YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD A TOWN BUILT ON A HILL CANNOT BE HIDDEN. NEITHER DO PEOPLE LIGHT A LAMP AND PUT IT UNDER A BOWL. INSTEAD THEY PUT IT ON ITS STAND, AND IT GIVES LIGHT TO EVERYONE IN THE HOUSE. IN THE SAME WAY, LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE BEFORE OTHERS, THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN.

For Family: Be a good spouse and mother to the children For Others: Be a good leader who prioritizes others before oneself For the Community: Be a good citizen for the community with unity and initiative Work together for the progress of the community - Mary Jane, Parent

WORLDVIEW

“SO JESUS SAID TO THE JEWS WHO HAD BELIEVED HIM, “IF YOU ABIDE IN MY WORD, YOU ARE TRULY MY DISCIPLES, AND YOU WILL KNOW THE TRUTH, AND THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE”- JOHN 8:31-32

I have come to realize that I should stand firm in my identity as a Christian or Catholic because it is the primary church I belong to I have also realized that the Lord is always moving and working within my heart - Jenelyn, Scholar

“PRAY THEN LIKE THIS... YOUR KINGDOM IS COME, YOUR WILL BE DONE, ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN.” MATTHEW 6:9-10.

To live a life without God is a horrible mistake We should let God be the center of our life -Aries, Scholar

KINGDOM OF GOD

By learning about the kingdom of God, we will discover how to share the good word of God and how we will be saved in order to reach and experience the kingdom of God here on earth - Roselyn, Parent

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AND ADVOCACY

TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE FOR COMMUNITIES

“Nakakatuwa na kahit sa maliit na paraan may maitutulong ang aming negosyo.” (It's delightful that even in small ways, our business can contribute and make a difference)

The first one is to understand the impact of coin bank installations and to explore the perspective of the establishments involved. When we approached this establishment, they were introduced to the organization's mission and objectives. This initial interaction sparks curiosity and an eagerness to learn more about the organization's work.

In addition to this, in a conversation with the establishment, they express their thoughts on HOLPFI, acknowledging the intentions of the organization They recognize the importance of the coin banks and the positive impact it can have on individuals and communities By accepting the partnership and allowing the installation of coin banks, these establishments demonstrate their commitment to the cause

Yasmin has expressed their continued support to the advocacy that the organization has and as we all pray together, may more people, more than their businesses, will have the heart to commit to such cause because at the end of the day, it is not really about us, but about the purpose that God has set in our lives.

These are the very exact words of one of the establishment owners with our coin banks installed

In a bustling community of business here and there, it is with joy that we share one of the stores who throughout all these years has been a partner of Hands of Love Philippines Foundation Inc in building brighter futures for our communities It may not be a lot, but the little goes a long way and the long way makes a huge impact in the lives of the indigenous communities.

Our organization, and the work that God has set in our lives is as challenging as it can get. With manpower and resources that we have, we can only do so much but alongside this journey, we have all our partner establishments who agreed to have our coin banks installed, allowing their customers to contribute small amounts towards the cause. One of these partnerships is the partnership between HOLPFI and YASMIN which is now going through its 5 year course. It created a ripple effect of support within the community. Customers who frequent this establishment have become aware of the cause and are more likely to contribute. This collective effort fosters a sense of unity and solidarity, strengthening the community's resolve to provide equal educational opportunities for all.

NEW STORIES OF STRENGTH

Just like the story of two fishes and five loaves in the book of John 6, verses 9-11 says, 9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” 10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.

Every little effort, even with just two fishes and five loaves, regardless of its magnitude, holds significance and can create a meaningful impact.

NEVER ENDING SUPPORT Staff of Yasmin poses for a picture after the expression of their support to the organization

HARDWORK Alangan-Mangyan women making beads craft (left) and packing the crafts (right) showing the process of beads craft making with passion

Dear partners, we are grateful! God is indeed so good.

RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT AND ADVOCACY - KAPASA

With the vision of having this social enterprise to empower and unite communities by offering support, resources, and opportunities to marginalized individuals, enabling them to tap into their God-given potential and overcome physical hunger, KAPASA (Kamay na may Pagmamahal ay Sama-sama) has been doing it’s best to showcase the strength of the beads craft makers from Paitan, Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, in a community where the Alangan and Hanunuo tribes resides.

KAPASA rose to light to address the lack of income and lack of market recognition and avenues to sell. Regardless of how people think of the situation of indigenous communities, there is so much more that they can offer. More than the beads craft, it’s the warmth, the partnership and the joy of working together, regaining new stories of strength and empowerment all throughout the community.

Nanay Magdalena, Nanay Ofelia, and Nanay Sendang, as the president, vice-president and treasurer of the KAPASA Project have shared how the project has become important in their lives. All of them have shared how it became an opportunity to have employment, and give extra income to them. Through bead craft making, people can harness their artistic skills and create unique pieces that resonate with customers, contributing to their financial stability and empowering them with a fulfilling livelihood option that helps their families This has also brought them closer as a community as it became a topic for conversation between neighbors

Quite a unique but heartwarming thing that Nanay Sendang shares is that this livelihood they have also became sort of a family bonding because almost all of the family members are making beads crafts.

With almost all family members involved in making bead crafts, this shared endeavor has brought them closer together, fostering a sense of unity, collaboration, and shared creativity

On a different note, when asked, Nanay Sendang, Ate Nora, Ate Lisa and Nanay Magdalena shared that it is not only beads craft that the Alangan Tribes are capable of Tigbi and nito crafts, like nito plates and duyans (swings) are also part of the culture of the Alangans

They use tigbi (pearl barley) and uway (rattan) for these kinds of crafts. The mothers mentioned that they make rosaries from tigbi but it is only seasonal and cannot be used all the time and the cross is made of wood. Before KAPASA, the mothers knew the beads craft even before but learned more through some nuns who visited the community and gave them patterns and materials. But through KAPASA, a lot more has changed and evolved.

KAPASA is not as big of a project as others but this small project can bring high impact to its community and its people. HOLPFI and the relationship with the mothers have greatly provided a sense of community and this is what we impart to other people too. No deed is too little fo the Lo d beca se He is the one that

KAPASA Crafts laid down (left), mothers continuously making crafts (right)

Bringing hope to communities with a touch of true love

WE can't do it alone... We need partners who will pray, volunteer and support us financially.