Creating a Lasting Change by Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines

APRIL - JUNE 2024

Letter from the President

Dear Partners,

This quarter’s Blessings Asia lies at the heart of everything we do: Creating Lasting Change. This theme resonates deeply with our mission and underscores our unwavering commitment to transforming lives and communities in a way that brings about enduring, positive change.

At Operation Blessing, we believe that our work should not merely scratch the surface of issues but should leave a lasting imprint of hope and progress. This is why “Creating Lasting Change” is not just a theme; it’s a guiding principle that informs every decision and action we take.

In this newsletter, we will share with you stories of individuals whose lives have been forever changed through the power of education. Our Back-to-School Project has empowered several scholars to break free from the cycle of poverty and reach their full potential.

Through our Disaster Response efforts in earthquake-stricken Taiwan, we not only provided immediate relief but also contributed to the mental and spiritual stability of affected communities.

By enhancing access to healthcare services and promoting health and wellness, Operation Blessing is also playing a pivotal role in ensuring

Transforming lives with you,

hotspot in ruins: laid-off locals desperate for help New chapter begins for Community of Hope beneficiaries

Tourist

From being a lively and vibrant tourist destination, Taroko National Park had been turned into a ghost town by the earthquake. A lot of businesses closed in the area which resulted to unemployment.

Enduring an injury

After a motorbike accident left Alexander De Leon injured and diagnosed with diabetes, his medical bills quickly piled up. Operation Blessing’s Medical Assist Project stepped in, offering physical therapy, medication, and groceries.

Unveiling the smile within

Austine Abrillo’s life has been transformed in ways his parents could only dream of. Born with a severe cleft lip and palate, Austine’s future looked bleak as his family struggled to afford the necessary surgeries.

A mother’s ambitious love

Recognizing the limited opportunities for those without a high school education, Raquel constantly reminds her children about the importance of schooling and pledges to support their dreams.

Moving Forward Together

Goodyear Philippines and Operation Blessing announce a strengthened partnership aimed at reaching and assisting more Filipinos in need. In a significant development, 12 brand new Goodyear tires were generously donated to Operation Blessing for its most frequently used vehicles.

The resilience of a warrior seamstress

Piya Azis, a widow and entrepreneur, lost everything in the 2017 Marawi conflict. Operation Blessing aided her and others with relief, rehabilitation, and livelihood support. Despite setbacks from COVID-19, Piya rebuilt her sewing business. With continued assistance and training, she and fellow survivors have grown their enterprises, supporting their families and communities.

DISASTER RESPONSE

Devastating floods and landslides left families in Davao Region homeless and struggling to survive. However, amidst the despair, there’s hope, as Operation Blessing provided vital aid like food, mats, and blankets to those in need. Our Disaster Response Team also partnered with local churches to offer prayers, support, and the comforting words of God.

One of the beneficiaries we have helped is Aiza Balos, a 23-year-old mother from Montevista, Davao de Oro. Their home located near a stream was flooded, leaving them stranded. Rescue teams brought them to safety, but they were still struggling. With her husband unable to work, they lacked food and water.

Yet, despite their hardships, Aiza remains thankful for the assistance she’s received. “Thank God for allowing us to receive help through Operation Blessing. Thank you as well to the donors who helped.”

CHILDREN

Operation Blessing’s Back-To-School Project has long been dedicated to providing underprivileged students with access to quality education, turning their dreams into realities.

In the past academic year, the project has successfully nurtured and supported 14 talented and determined scholars who have graduated from college, underscoring Operation Blessing’s commitment to empowering individuals through education.

The 14 scholars who have recently graduated represent a diverse range of talents and aspirations. From future engineers to aspiring teachers, these graduates have not only completed their studies but are now poised to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.

PROJECT HAPPENINGS

HEALTHCARE HUNGER RELIEF

Blindsided by a diagnosis she’d never heard of— Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome (VKH)—Ana felt overwhelmed and uncertain about what lay ahead. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, VKH is a central nervous system condition that specifically affects vision and hearing. Ophthalmic complications from this condition are numerous, but early identification and treatment can reduce morbidity.

This condition forced Ana to make countless visits to the eye specialist in search of relief. Each visit seemed to offer temporary solutions, but the discomfort persisted. Until one day, she experienced an extreme pain that led to an operation. She was also forced to leave her job in order to fully recover. With her husband’s income as the sole breadwinner for their family of five, she faced not only health challenges but also financial worries.

Amidst her challenges, Ana found relief when Operation Blessing, through its Medical Assist Project, came to her aid. She was not only provided with essential eye tests, eyeglasses, medication, and supplements but also surrounded by prayers and spiritual guidance from a local church partner in Las Piñas City.

“I feel blessed to be one of the many beneficiaries of Operation Blessing, and to be looked after even after they visited me here. It’s very comforting for me, and I praise the Lord for them. Thank you to all donors and supporters of Operation Blessing.”

Our team visited Sitio Bulak in Nueva Ecija and provided much-needed food bags to around a hundred Dumagat families.

Most of the community members do not know their exact age and were not able to attend school. Only a few know how to write their names and read. They earn a living through occasional farming and rattan preparation. One of the beneficiaries, Tessie Pineda, a mother of five, earns a meager amount of only ₱300 ($5) per week from this work. Livelihood opportunities are even scarcer during the rainy season.

With our food bags, these families now have some extra support to get by. They were also encouraged by God’s Word, shared by our local partner, First Baptist Church of Papaya.

“Thank you so much for people like you who think about us and give us help! This is a very huge help, especially for us Dumagats who earn very little. Thank you, Operation Blessing!” — Tessie Pineda, Dumagat beneficiary

INDIVIDUALS HELPED IN DISASTER RESPONSE

101

INDIVIDUALS PROVIDED WITH MOBILE ASSISTIVE DEVICE

INDIGENOUS CHILDREN FED

6,634

2,159

INDIVIDUALS

MEDICAL BRIGADE

6,634

2,159

INDIVIDUALS SERVED IN BRIGADE

SCHOLARS SERVED

FAMILIES RECEIVED MICROENTERPRISE ASSISTANCE

12 PATIENTS UNDERWENT LIFE-CHANGING SURGERY

COMMUNITIES REACHED BY THE MOBILE CLINIC

APRIL-JUNE

INDIVIDUALS GIVEN MEDICALASSISTANCE

A LASTING HOPE FOR EARTHQUAKE-HIT TAIWAN

Taroko National Park, once a bustling tourist hotspot, has been reduced to a ghost town in the wake of a devastating earthquake. The tremors didn’t just shake the earth; they shattered lives, bringing the thriving local economy to a standstill. Businesses have shuttered, leaving countless people unemployed and uncertain of their futures.

The Taiwan government has pledged millions for the park’s rehabilitation, but recovery will be slow. The tourism industry is bracing for a loss of over $100 million—a staggering blow to those who once relied on it for their livelihoods.

Among the hardest hit is Wu Chi Shang, a 64-year-old coffee shop worker who lost her job when the earthquake struck. Now, with no income, she is left to rely on her modest elderly pension to get by in the coming months.

“We were inside the coffee shop when the earthquake happened. Our big coffee pump even dropped. There’s nothing we can do about it now because it is being renovated,” Wu Chi Shang recounted with a heavy heart.

But hope is not lost. Thanks to your support, Operation Blessing steps in to provide essential food assistance to Wu Chi Shang and hundreds of other families affected by this disaster. This aid will stretch their limited budgets, allowing them to focus on other pressing needs or to save for the uncertain future.

“I want to say thank you very much. This will help us while we stand by. Thank you,” Wu Chi Shang expressed with deep gratitude.

In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck Hualien County in Taiwan, many families have faced unimaginable challenges. Among these, the destruction of essential water tanks has left countless households struggling. The soaring demand and limited supply have made it incredibly difficult for residents to replace these vital resources.

One such individual is Lai Lijing, a 52-yearold woman who is physically challenged and relies on government subsidies for support.

“I was sleeping when the earthquake struck. The ground shook violently, and everything on my desk fell over. When my younger brother arrived, I told him about the water tank at the back of the house. He found it shattered and quickly turned off all the main switches,” Lai Lijing narrated.

In her time of need, Lai Lijing’s situation was dire, as her children also face their own challenges, making her reliant on external support.

Thanks to our collaboration with the Chinese Christian Relief Association (CCRA), we have successfully acquired and distributed 9 water tanks to households in need. This donation has brought a glimmer of hope and relief to many households, including Lai Lijing’s.

“Thank you for donating the water tank for my home. Your support means so much to me and my family.”

Enduring an injury

Working hard to support his family, Alexander De Leon was taking on extra work as a plumber after his regular job. One day, as he was riding home on his motorbike, he got a flat tire and crashed into some rocks by the roadside.

The accident left Alexander with serious injuries to his knee and foot. Fortunately, bystanders helped him at the scene and called an ambulance. He was then taken to a hospital in Rosario for two days before being transferred to San Jose, Batangas, for specialized orthopedic care.

However, even with skilled surgeons and strong family support, Alexander’s challenges persisted. Discovering he had diabetes added complexity to his recovery.

Alexander faced increasing medical bills and financial burdens, leading him and his family to turn to Operation Blessing (OB) for help.

recovery but also with his new medical condition and the stress it caused his family. He was assisted for three physical therapy sessions to regain strength and mobility.

Operation Blessing continued its support by providing Alexander with insulin and medication to manage his diabetes. He was also supplied with nutritional supplements and groceries, easing the financial strain on his family and ensuring they had essential nourishment.

With time, Alexander grew stronger physically and emotionally. Despite ongoing challenges, he approaches life with determination and gratitude.

“Thank you so much for your effort to come here and bring assistance. The help you gave means a lot to me and my family,” Alexander said.

UNVEILING THE SMILE WITHIN

Austine’s parents, Bernadeth and Rheniel Abrillo, were determined to provide their son with a normal life despite the severe challenges they faced. Rheniel, a hard-working construction worker, toiled for a mere ₱400 ($7) a day, while Bernadeth stayed home to care for Austine and his two younger siblings. Their meager income barely covered their daily needs, let alone the expensive medical procedures Austine desperately needed.

Bernadeth’s plea for help reached Operation Blessing (OB) in 2020 when Austine was just a 5-month-old infant. OB quickly arranged for a check-up at Rizal Medical Center, where doctors advised that Austine required a nutritional build-up before surgery. But just as hope was on the horizon, the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, and Metro Manila, along with Rizal, went into lockdown.

The pandemic wreaked havoc on the Abrillo family. Fearful of exposing their vulnerable son to the deadly virus, Bernadeth and Rheniel avoided hospital visits. Medical professionals also halted all elective surgeries, adding another layer of despair to their situation.

As the pandemic restrictions loosened, Bernadeth reached out to Operation Blessing once more. By this time, Austine had gained the necessary weight for surgery. In 2022, Austine’s lip was repaired through OB’s Life-Changing Surgery Project in partnership with Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation Philippines, Inc.

But the miracles didn’t stop there! After fully healing from his first surgery, Austine underwent another critical operation in March 2024 to repair his cleft palate.

Since then, Austine has been free from the constant colds and coughs that plagued him before his palatoplasty surgery. He can now eat normally, resulting in a healthy weight gain of 2 kilograms in just three months.

With both his lips and palate now repaired, Austine’s parents no longer fear future bullying as he starts school. And while some words have improved, Austine is set to undergo speech therapy to further enhance his speech.

New chapter begins for Community of Hope beneficiaries

Operation Blessing has officially handed over the Community of Hope common areas to the local government of Tacloban City! This remarkable project, built for Typhoon Yolanda survivors, now provides safe and sturdy homes for 100 families.

After nine years of dedicated community development and equipping the people, it is finally time to move forward with the support of the Tacloban government. This handover marks a significant milestone as part of Operation Blessing’s exit strategy, ensuring that the community continues to thrive under local governance.

The signing ceremony took place at the Tacloban City Office, with OB President Peter Kairuz, OB Leaders, and Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez signing the Memorandum of Understanding and Deed of Donation.

This project is a huge win for the Tacloban community, showcasing their resilience and the strong support from Operation Blessing. It’s not just about homes – it’s about bringing back hope and a fresh start for these families who’ve faced so much since Typhoon Yolanda.

A mother’s ambitious love

Many people say, “Education is the key to a better future,” a lesson Raquel wishes she had heeded when she was a young student. Instead, she fell in love with her now-husband and chose marriage over completing high school.

Raquel and her husband live a modest, happy life with their two children in Zambales. They craft and sell bamboo souvenirs on the nearby beach. Sales thrive during Christmas and summer, but there are months of minimal to no sales.

As their family’s needs grew with their children attending school, Raquel sought a job to help her husband provide more for the family.

“I tried to apply for work, but even a saleslady position requires at least a high school graduate,” says Raquel, her frustration echoing in her voice.

Recognizing the limited opportunities for those without a high school education, Raquel constantly reminds her children about the importance of schooling and pledges to support their dreams.

“I hope they will not make the same mistakes as I did, falling in love early and marrying young. I always remind them to focus on their studies,” she said.

Her eldest, Paul, dreams of becoming a firefighter, while Joy aspires to be a teacher.

Raquel fervently prays for God’s guidance in helping her children achieve their dreams. Her hope was rekindled when free Alternative System (ALS) education was offered to young parents in their community last month. She enrolled with enthusiasm, aiming to secure a high school diploma for better job prospects.

God also answered her prayers when her children became part of OB’s Bless-A-Child Project. Through this initiative, they received complimentary school supplies and will also have the opportunity to enjoy daily nutritious meals for breakfast and lunch. These provisions aim to support their overall health and enhance their ability to concentrate on their studies.

Both of Raquel’s children are malnourished for their ages, primarily due to limited resources and a diet of rice, vegetables, soy sauce, and salt, lacking essential nutrition.

Raquel is grateful and hopeful that with prayer and the provision of good nutrition and school needs, her family can have a better future.

Donor-turned-volunteer: Marilyn’s inspiring leap into active service

Marilyn Teodoro, a 50-year-old businesswoman, embodies the spirit of giving. A long-time Operation Blessing (OB) donor, her journey took a powerful turn when she finally joined the mission as a volunteer. Here’s what she has to say:

“OB’s medical missions are different from others I’ve experienced. I am in awe and moved to tears to be part of this. God has shown me so much.

“From the start of the travel, I noticed that the volunteer doctors we were with are seasoned professionals, yet they were patient and not at all pompous!

“It’s my first time joining, yet it felt like we were all brothers and sisters. I felt very welcome. It is holistic. We started each day with devotion, unlike other mission groups I’ve joined where we went straight to the work. Here, we didn’t just bring medicine and healthcare to the people. We brought the Lord into their lives.”

She continues to share how she started donating:

“One time, I was lost in life and struggling in business. I had a multimillion-peso debt. All I had in my pocket was Php 500. I was praying and crying out to God for help. Then, I saw a remittance center and decided to donate to CBN Asia. About 30 minutes later, I received a call from a friend who was willing to lend me a large sum of money to help my business. God is so good!”

Since then, as a way of expressing thanks for God’s faithfulness in her life, she has continued to support Operation Blessing.

Now, standing side-by-side with her fellow volunteers, Marilyn’s heart overflows with gratitude. “Finally, I’m not just a witness to OB’s incredible work,” she beams, “I’m actively contributing, making a difference in lives.”

Marilyn’s journey is an inspiration to us all. It reminds us that giving, in any form, can create a ripple effect of hope and transformation. By opening our hearts and offering a helping hand, we can not only support those in need but also experience the joy of service.

Teaching with a Mission

Growing up in a Hanunuo Mangyan tribe, Menya Lanas never thought her future would be anything more than what she saw around her. But she was determined to change that.

From a young age, Menya, who lives in the mountainous area of Sinariri, saw the lack of educational opportunities in her community and the lack of interest in learning among her peers. She believed that education was the key to preserving her tribe’s history and culture, and she wanted to be the one to inspire and encourage others to learn. However, the resources and support for her education were limited, and it seemed that her dream would remain just that.

“I was so depressed at that time. I just wanted to disappear, but God used my parents. They prayed for me and helped me recover,” she said.

“My family struggles a lot financially. I had to work while studying. At the same time, because the cost of transportation in college is expensive, I had to sacrifice going home and rent a cheap dorm near the school,” Menya said.

The already tough situation got worse as Menya’s life took an unexpected turn. She became pregnant with her childhood friend in college, who later abandoned her.

On a medical mission in Oriental Mindoro, Operation Blessing (OB) met Menya’s father, Pastor Jamin Lanas. He shared with the team his desire to help their community as well as his daughter’s story.

Moved by her passion and dedication, OB reached out and offered to provide Menya with the necessary resources and support to pursue her education.

After years of hard work and determination, Menya finally graduated and returned to her community as a teacher. She was warmly welcomed by her tribe, and her students were eager to learn from her.

“I’d like to express my gratitude to everyone who assisted me. It was a huge help to me in finishing my studies and paying my school fees. Thank you so much and God bless you all.”

Menya is currently teaching at Sinariri High School in Oriental Mindoro, a school supported by Operation Blessing. She has also recently become a certified Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) passer!

Partnering for Long-Term Change

Goodyear Philippines has reaffirmed its commitment to making a positive impact on Filipino communities by strengthening its partnership with Operation Blessing. This collaboration recently culminated in the donation of 12 brand-new Goodyear tires to Operation Blessing.

Ms. Mary Mel Balazo, Market Lead for Goodyear Philippines, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing that Goodyear’s vision and mission are in perfect alignment with their commitment to community service.

She shared, “Their vision and mission strongly supports our value of giving back to the community and this allows us to make sure that we also take and participate into serving our community. Hopefully, we can reach more through the sponsorship that we had. We also wanted Operation Blessing to be a channel so that Goodyear can be able to serve our community as well.”

During the turnover, Corporate Communications and Resource Development (CCRD) Director Gigi Endaya expressed her gratitude for the invaluable support from Goodyear: “Our goal is to touch and transform lives, one family, one community at a time, by moving forward together with you. Again, thank you for partnering with us and touching people’s lives through this tire sponsorship.”

This recent donation is not the first time Goodyear has stood alongside Operation Blessing. The company has supported

the organization’s disaster response and healthcare programs in the past, reinforcing their commitment to being a reliable partner during times of crisis and medical challenges.

Notably, Goodyear staff members have actively volunteered their time and expertise during Operation Blessing’s Mobile Clinic in Quezon City, which has significantly impacted the lives of more than 200 beneficiaries.

As Goodyear and Operation Blessing join forces once more, it is evident that this partnership is not just about providing tires; it’s about driving change, hope, and progress in the lives of countless Filipinos.

The resilience of a warrior seamstress

On May 23, 2017, Marawi City in Mindanao was rocked by violent extremist groups. Thousands fled, including 48-year-old widow and entrepreneur, Piya Azis.

Operation Blessing (OB) stepped in to aid the displaced, launching massive relief operations and providing food, medical missions, and essential items. In 2018, OB also began recovery and rehabilitation efforts, offering affected locals renewed hope.

Piya lost everything in the war—her ready-to-wear clothes business and sewing shop. Thanks to OB and Makati Hope Christian School, she received an electric sewing machine, a sewing starter kit, and fabric to restart her livelihood.

Then, in 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and strict lockdowns crippled their businesses for three years. Piya and her fellow survivors had to adapt. Some ventured into food vending, while others used their savings to survive.

OB came through again with the Microenterprise Project, providing edging machines to

help the women rebuild. Piya now sews and sells children’s shorts at ₱20 ($0.35) each, along with malongs (wraparound cloths) and bedsheets priced between ₱250-₱500 ($4-$9).

With a background in business, Piya and her peers sustained and grew their ventures. Their revolving capital increased from ₱5,000 ($86) to an impressive ₱20,000 ($345) to ₱30,000 ($518). They rebuilt their lives, provided for their families, and ensured their children could continue schooling.

Piya also sells cloth for extra income, earning around ₱600 ($10) weekly. Despite recent dips in sales, her determination remains strong.

OB’s Microenterprise Project also offers the beneficiaries training in financial management and bookkeeping, helping them manage their businesses effectively. They are also ministered with God’s Word, providing spiritual support to the beneficiaries and their families.

From the ruins of war to the challenges of a pandemic, these women rise, showing that with support and determination, anything is possible!