Occidental Mindoro, Philippines: The Mindoro District is the newest pioneering district in the Philippines. The district needs to be equipped to carry out various ministries within the church. One of the ministries strongly practiced in planting churches is the ministry to children. The church believes that children have a place in the Kingdom and that the church needs to care for them. Ministry to these precious souls is considered one of the most important areas of wisdom for leaders to develop.
To address these needs, the Mindoro District recently conducted a significant training on August 15-16, 2025, at Aroma Church of the Nazarene, bringing together church leaders and resource persons to strengthen ministries and enhance community preparedness. Ms. Norilyn Cortez Balkin, the resource person for the Disaster Preparedness Seminar, shared her expertise in equipping leaders for emergencies. A Professional Social Worker from the DSWD Municipal Office also served as a resource person, enriching the training with valuable insights on child protection and community care.
Through the Philippine-Micronesia Holistic Child Development (HCD) program, participants had the opportunity to understand God’s heart for children and the Child Protection Policy. Mrs. Lilian Tambongco, HCD-PMF Coordinator, made a significant impact on many church leaders in the district by opening their hearts to the needs of children. A guest from the DSWD also contributed to the learning on Child Protection. This newfound knowledge served not only as additional information and a blessing but also as a warning to those who serve children.
In addition to the Child Protection Policy and the “Understanding God’s Heart for Children” seminar, the participants also gained valuable knowledge on Risk Reduction through the cooperation of the church, NCM, and the Barangay. Rev. Jaime Eniceo spearheaded the effort to emphasize the importance of risk reduction management during disasters.
The district expresses its gratitude to the Lord for these opportunities to learn more in building His kingdom.
