Davao, Philippines – The term “disaster” can evoke painful thoughts, but when approached with an open heart and a willingness to assist those impacted by calamities, it can lead to incredible opportunities for impactful ministry.

When the flood disaster struck various parts of the Davao and Agusan regions in the Philippines last February 2024, our Nazarene Disaster Response Team from Mindanao East District, under the leadership of Sherwin Basmillo, immediately responded. This initiative was made possible through collaboration, financial assistance, prayers, and support from various ministries and the field. The Disaster Response Team has created numerous opportunities to minister and establish Child-Friendly Spaces (CFS) in the areas that have been given relief goods. Beyond the distribution of relief goods, the NDR MED Team has also gone back and forth to different places hit by the flooding to minister to the affected community for months now, especially in Carmen Davao Del Norte and Maco Davao De Oro, where the landslide on February 6, 2024, happened and caused the death of many people in this place. Because of the collaborative effort of the NDR team and local churches, five mission churches were opened, namely Mangangit Maco mission church and Carmen Mission church under the leadership of Tagum City church, Mati mission church under the leadership of Pastor Marvin Tiberio, Bilawan Mission church under the leadership of Madang, Mati church, and mission church in Barangay Nanyo, Panabo city under the leadership of Panabo Church of the Nazarene.

Despite the challenging circumstances, all the efforts and prayers have led to a fruitful ministry. We ask for your continued prayers and support for these ministries, especially regarding their financial needs. – Rev. Jaime Eniceo