We hope you can visit the Philippines, a tropical country blessed with captivating coastlines and picturesque countryside views on 7,641 islands. But behind all its beauty is a slew of natural hazards because the Philippines is at the center of a typhoon belt and is among the countries that form the Pacific's volcanic "Ring of Fire." According to the Global Risk Index of 2022, our country is the most at risk of natural disasters. Strong winds and floods brought about by typhoons cause so much death and destruction of homes and food crops every year. This further exacerbates the impact of poverty on the lives of the poorest. Our church partners proactively respond to each natural calamity through pre-evacuation measures and the provision of food supplies. They also provide relief, participate in rescue, and rebuild homes if necessary. Compassion remains a faithful supporter of the church's ministry in all these activities.

Last December 2022, we celebrated fifty years of Compassion's ministry in the Philippines with the theme, "Feasting on God's Faithfulness." It was also the occasion to formally launch our foray into far-flung communities where our indigenous people (IP) groups live. Last year alone, we opened 27 new church partners in these areas. According to statistics, only 2% of children from these IP communities earn a college degree. But in one of the first tribal churches we worked with back in 2009, all of the first thirty-five registered children in Compassion's program will graduate from college this 2023. Praise God for the impact of our work with the local tribal churches!

Before the pandemic, two of our children received national recognition from our government. One of our children who graduated in 2017 was named among the Ten Outstanding Students in the Philippines. In December 2018, the "Most Excellent Child in the Philippines" from all secondary schools in the country was from our church partner in Mindanao. Several graduates were top notchers in professional board examinations.

Best of all, they are living testimonies of the transforming power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. All of these are fruits of your prayers and support. Indeed, little becomes much when placed in our Master's hands.