Botolan, Zambales
Botolan is the first site of the ministry. We knew what a “barangay” was (a neighborhood) but didn’t know this barangay was “Bihawo”. It started with a chalkboard for Lakas High School and everyone saw how great the needs were. A feeding program, medical and dental services, and clothing drive was added. Before long, we had the respect and friendship of this community. At the same time, home bible studies were started and people started accepting Jesus as Lord.
The baptisms began and a small church started meeting in a small thatched hut (Kubo or Nipa hut).
A new Aeta believer donated a parcel of land for perpetual use and the first church on Aeta indigenous land was built. Pastor Jesse Commandante joined as the full time pastor and serves the community.
It all started with a chalkboard!
Olpoy - Iba, Zambales
A neighboring community church heard what was happening in Botolan and wanted to be reaching their Aeta neighbors. We met with them and discussed ways we could work together to bring the gospel to Olpoy, a small community about 1 hour north of Botolan and close to the city of Iba, the capital of the county of Zambales.
Feedings and outreach programs have begun. Medical missions are being planned and home bible studies are underway.
Several decisions have been made for the Lord and baptisms have begun. We look forward to seeing these labors bear fruit.
A piece of land for a future church building has been identified and the process is underway to acquire perpetual use rights of this land.
Proposed site of new church
Tarlac City
Roger, one of the early believers in Botolan asked us to visit his original home of Tarlac City, where he is chieftain of a small barangay. Naturally, this request was met with enthusiasm. The first visit was in 2024 and we look forward to teaming up with a local church to minister to this community and share the gospel of Jesus.
Nueva Ecjia - coming soon
Nueva Ecjia and Olongapo/Subic have been identified as areas with large Aeta populations that may be good candidates for Chalkboard services. We are in the process of identifying and contacting local churches to implement the work and ministries with local Aeta people.
Olongapo - coming soon