L9 Bicol Mission Trip

Bicol's Turn To Help

2009-10-06T04:10:00.000+08:00

MANILA, Philippines -- Years ago, they were at the mercy of two killer typhoons and the relief efforts by Metro Manila. This time, it’s Bicol's turn to repay kindness with kindness.
Inhabitants of Bicol towns ravaged three years ago by typhoons “Milenyo” and “Reming” found themselves in an unfamiliar position after their storm-prone region was spared the wrath of storm “Ondoy” (Ketsana) and typhoon “Pepeng” (Parma).
Now, Bicol people are offering a helping hand to residents of Metro Manila badly hit by Ondoy.
“It’s our turn to return the generosity of those who helped us before,” said Rodel Batocabe, a lawyer and president of Ako Bicol Foundation, citing the “overwhelming response” of Bicol to Metro Manila’s call for assistance.
The Ako Bicol Caravan, composed of more than 30 cars, three trucks filled with donations, 10 dump trucks, and two dredgers, rolled into evacuation centers in Metro Manila and Rizal on Monday morning, bringing with them an assortment of food and supplies for typhoon victims.
A 50-member team of volunteers came along to help dredge canals and waterways and to clean up the muddy streets in two cities and two towns for the next two days.
A small group of Bicolano doctors also volunteered their services to aid the wounded.
“This has really brought out the best in the Bicolano,” Batocabe said, noting that even though the Bicol region had not completely recovered from the damage wrought by past typhoons, residents still spared their precious pesos to help out.
“Along the way, ordinary people in slippers would throw plastic bags with sardines or instant noodles or used clothes into our trucks,” he said.
“It was touching because these are things they still need for themselves but they are giving them away,” Batocabe said.
He said many Bicolanos felt fortunate that their towns were spared the impact of Ondoy and Pepeng, which wreaked havoc elsewhere in neighboring regions.
“It’s better to be in a position to give than to receive,” he said. “From our experience with typhoons, we were always the ones receiving help instead of giving it. But this time, we can help.”
On Monday, the Bicol caravan visited evacuation centers in Taytay town in Rizal province, Novaliches in Quezon City and Marikina City, three of many stops in their two-day itinerary around the metropolis, said Annie Sumanga, spokesperson of the group.
The group gave away more than P1 million worth of relief goods, including banig (mats), blankets, brooms, bottled water, canned food, instant noodles and coco lumber, Sumanga said.
Most of these relief items were collected from radio stations and other drop-off points, including Ako Bicol’s headquarters in Barangay (Village) Bónot, near the Port of Legazpi City.
The rest was collected along the way, as the motorcade made its way around Bicol toward Metro Manila.
“The people were running along the trucks. Some would throw noodles; others would throw used clothes that are still wearable,” Sumanga said.
In Albay alone, donations from people in the streets filled two-and-a-half trucks, Batocabe said. “The response was overwhelming,” he said.
As a result, the original target of 2,000 family-beneficiaries was raised to 5,000, he said.
Jocey Valdenor, another Ako Bicol leader, said the target areas were the villages of Tumana and Tangka in Marikina; Bicol Compound in Bagbag village, Novaliches; San Juan village in Taytay, Rizal, and an unspecified location in Los Baños, Laguna.
Valdenor said the relief effort was organized by Ako Bicol, Sunwest Care Foundation, Rotary Club of Central Legazpi, Legazpi Jaycees, Tektone Foundation, the local government of Legazpi, dzGB, Bombo Radio Legazpi, among other government and nongovernment organizations.
Batocabe said the group would lend their trucks and heavy equipment along with 50 volunteers who would be staying to help dredging waterways and cleaning up the streets in the next few days.
In September 2006, Bicol, particularly Sorsogon province, was among several areas hit the hardest by Milenyo that killed almost 200 people and destroyed billions of pesos worth of agricultural crops and infrastructure.
In November of the same year, the region bore the brunt of Reming, which killed up to 1,000 people, mostly in Albay villages crushed by mudslides and boulders from the slopes of Mayon Volcano.
“More or less we’re already experienced in disasters,” Batocabe said.
“We know what is needed after a typhoon. We know what to bring and how we can help out from relief to rehabilitation,” he said.

BICOL READY FOR H1N1

2009-07-12T00:48:00.000+08:00

BICOL READY for H1N1
Inquirer Southern Luzon

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines—The Regional Disaster Coordinating Council in Bicol came up with an information campaign on Influenza A (H1N1) flu to prevent the entry of the virus. The Department of Health-Bicol reported to an emergency meeting Friday at the Office of Civil Defense here that Bicol is still free from the virus.

Although two previous cases were reported in Albay and Camarines Sur these tested negative for the virus, said DOH-Bicol. “Those tested negative in Bicol were good news for the region but the one positive case from Canada is not good for the country,” said Raffy Alejandro, head of OCD-Bicol.

The meeting was called to make proactive plans and emergency response measures in case Bicol reports its first case. The DOH-Bicol was designated as regional crisis manager while the National Disaster Coordinating Council has similarly appointed the DOH central office as the national crisis manager.

Albay

Albay health authorities are on guard against the swine flu virus as tourists continue to pour in the province because of summer festivities and the whale shark watch in Donsol, Sorsogon. Albay Governor Joey Salceda activated the Provincial Epidemiology Surveillance Units (Pesu) end of March and identified three hospitals in the province where patients who would be affected by the virus could be brought.

The Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTTH) based in Daraga, Albay, the Ziga Memorial District Hospital in Tabaco City and the Josefina Duran Memorial District Hospital in Ligao City were all on alert. They designated isolation rooms for those who would show symptoms of the swine flu that has now affected some 25 countries worldwide.

Salceda also convened the Provincial Health Office (PHO) and the Albay Provincial Safety and Emergency Management Office and asked them to coordinate with DOH-Bicol and the BRTTH to devise proactive response to the swine flu crisis. “We have done this before during the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome incident. The standard operating procedures that we have taken in the past would be applied again with the swine flu crisis,” Salceda explained.

Operational funds are now ready for use in the event a swine flu case happens here, he said, adding that he had earmarked 24 percent of the province’s internal revenue allotment for health services. Salceda added that when DOH Secretary Francisco Duque learned of Albay province's anti-swine flu measures, the health official immediately called him up and told him that the department will be using the Albay Swineflu Response Strategy as a model for the whole country.

The DOH said the swine flu epidemic had entered a dangerous new phase as the death toll in Mexico had climbed to 149, while 2,000 people were believed to be infected. Salceda said the province’s readiness against swine flu is the same as its preparation for a coming typhoon with corresponding signals.

“As of now it is as if we are under signal number 1,” he said.

Reports from Rey Nasol, Jonas Cabiles Soltes, Maricar P. Cinco and Madonna T. Virola, Inquirer Southern Luzon

HOLY SPIRIT L9-09 CANCELLED

2009-07-12T00:29:00.000+08:00

The Church of the Holy Spirit L9 2009 mission trip has been cancelled. Surely the cancellation will not stop us from praying for the people of Bicol, even as they face an imminent eruption (Please see news item below). If anyone (non-L9s, at least L10) or any other ministry (not necessarily from the Church of the Holy Spirit) is interested in organising a mission trip to Bicol in December or late November, please contact missionariesinbicol@gmail.com .

To the L9-09 youths who journeyed with Uncle Al for eight weeks as part of the mission formation programme, many thanks, and your efforts are truly appreciated. AMO hopes that even though the mission has been cancelled, you now have the heart and mind of a missionary, ready to tellt he good news not just in Judea and Samarai, but to teh ends of the earth!

7,000 around Mayon ready for evacuation

July 11, 2009 18:05:00
Rey M. Nasol
Inquirer Southern Luzon

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines—Close to 7,000 residents—or 1,675 families—living around the slopes of Mayon Volcano are being readied for evacuation once the volcano's alert status is upgraded to level 3.

Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said the 7,000 residents was only the initial target of evacuation in the cities of Legazpi, Tabaco and Ligao and the towns of Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, Sto. Domingo and Malilipot once the alert level is raised.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the alert level status of the volcano from one (low-level unrest) to two (moderate unrest) on Friday after showing signs of increased unrest.

Alert level 3 means that there is an increased tendency towards eruption and there is relatively high unrest.

Vehicles were on standby for possible mass evacuation of residents should the abnormalities of Mayon further intensify. Authorities have started informing the population at risk and updating critical resources data of cities and towns around the volcano to determining the number of people to be placed in safer grounds.

City and town disaster councils around the volcano to are on a 24-hour watch, review their respective contingency plans and evaluate their communications and warning capacities.

hahaha. i'm a L10-er

2009-06-20T22:18:00.001+08:00

haha. hey everyone! omg i haven't been to this blog in such a long time. but i stumbled across my Bicol Photos again and i decided to come see the progress that you guys have made in the planning.

I think it's really cool that everyone in the planning team's so hyped up about it. I will be praying that your enthusiasm will last even past your trip to Bicol. It truly is quite an eye-opening experience and sometimes even a true test of your faith at points.

ok and for all those who wanted to see like, more photos from the trip last year, i am [finally] on the way to uploading it on facebook. you can find me at www.facebook.com/julianhallems
but facebook is being fussy and not allowing me to upload it all at one go. So give me a while, there's like, about a 1000+ photos to upload and
i can only upload like, 30-40 a time. yeah.

:D god bless.
glen kilian koh eng kai.

Chicken A La Carte

2009-05-09T13:12:00.003+08:00

Heyy everyone, Kelly (from the L9'08 batch) here.

I stumbled across this video and I really think all of you (missionaries who went to Bicol last year and those going this year) should take a few minutes to watch it.

They say that pictures speak a thousand words. Videos are moving pictures, so shouldn't they speak millions of words? Well this video - Chicken A La Carte by Ferdinand Dimadura - topped the 56th Berlin International Film Festival in February 2006 and it describes every single reason why we (L9'08 missionaries) went on the trip last December.

Oh and the video starts off with 2 ladies eating at Jollibee. Brings back so many fond memories, aye? (: All the Jollibee chicken wings, rice, burgers.. Jollibee is the most awesome fast food place in the world!

[edit]
Upon re-watching the video, I don't think the 2 ladies ate at Jollibee (the decor of the restaurant is different). But in any case, Jollibee is still awwwesome haha!
[/edit]

The short film clip may be a little dry and boring at the start, but be patient (patience is a virtue) and just keep watching yeahh. It's short, it's sweet, and it's powerful. Nothing more needs to be said.

Enjoy.

View this movie at cultureunplugged.com

kelly;

L908 Mission Trip Videos

2008-12-30T15:42:00.003+08:00

More than 15 gigs of photos and lots of headaches later, here's our so-called "offical" mission trip photo-video in three parts, no thanks to our non-cooperating software. Great songs accompany the video. Only part 1 is in Youtube, but all are in Facebook.

Part I

Part II

Part III

PHOTOS!

2008-12-22T18:50:00.006+08:00

Hello everyone. Glen here, so sorry but it's way way easier to give information through the posts that the small tagboard. so here's the deal about the pictures, I currently only have the pictures which i got from people till the day of the closing party over at Bicol itself. so to all those who had cameras with pictures inside from either the entire trip or from where i left off. please do find a way to pass to me your photos either via a thumbdrive or a SD memory card.

If you'd like, i'll be attending the Christmas Midnight Mass at church. You can pass me your photos then too. just text me to tell me where i can meet you to get your photos, and i'll return it to you the following Sunday where i'll probably be in the Catechist's Room in the morning.

Next thing, If you want the photos. you'll need to inform me about it at least one week in advance. because there's really that many photos. and i only have so many DVD-Rs to spare. if i put all the photos together. it'll probably take up about 5-6 discs for all the photos to go in. [you are welcome to you know, help out with the funding. :p] so do give me some time to put it into the discs.

so far, people who've responded to wanting the photos are....
Uncle Al, Sam Pang, Melissa, Kevin Ke, Ivan, Michelle. Jacintha, Sarah Mao, Jonathan, Kelly, Rae, Daniel, Jamie, Sister Angeline, Bhing and Professor Lani [i have no idea how i'm gonna pass you the photos though.]

i'll keep this post updated if anything else comes up.

God Bless!

[edit!] Liz gave me an idea. If you guys have like, thumb drives or external hard drives that have at least 25Gb worth of space. you can pass it to me too and i'll upload there. I can't pass around my hard drive as there's some private information inside. :D and no, there's no pornographic material involved. just personal writings. [/edit]

The Wrap Up

2008-12-20T18:23:00.002+08:00

Uncle Al writes:

The L908 mission (Alpha Mission Omega) returned safely to Singapore early this morning just minutes before 1 am, but not before an hour's delay in Manila's super cold Terminal 3. After a fun three and a half hour flight aboard Cebu Pacific, we landed in Singapore, and were met at the Budget Terminal by parents, friends and relatives. I couldn't help the sense of joy and relief among those who met us at the airport. After all, we're home, safe and sound, never mind if it's at that unholy hour.

For those of us who took a leap of faith and heeded God's call, this mission trip will be a momentous event that we will cherish all our lives.

As mission leader, I would like to thank the adults who joined us in this mission: Sr Angeline Lim, our spiritual director who always calmed us and made us aware of God's providence whenever we were down and troubled; Amy Lim, head of the faith formation ministries who was an able whipmaster whenever I am unable to do so; parents Richard Seow, Juliana Tan and David Koh for their invaluable assistance in keeping us well-fed and happy throughout; Jamie Bong, an RCIY catechist and one of the stewards of the junior catechist ministry, whose dedication and servant-attitude should be a role model for everyone; and Anthony Tann, whose presence and contributions made a lot of difference in looking after the well-being of the group.

I would also like to give this affirmation to all our youths who participated in this mission. You wholehearted participation was commendable, and your parents and our parish priest should be proud of you. But let me mention a few names for their exemplary conduct and leadership qualities, their dedication to the tasks assigned to them, their willingness to serve and not to be served: Glen Koh, Mark Lee, Timothy Low, Brian Chin, Jonathan Chng, Nicholas Neo, Samantha Chia, Kelly Tseng.
I would also like to thank the parents and friends who kept our spirits up by posting positive messages and affirmations in this blog throughout the mission trip. Those meant a great deal to us here while we were away, and we thank you for that.

To everyone in Bicol who helped us, and everyone everywhere who prayed for our well-being of the success of our mission trip - thank you, and may God bless you abundantly.

Thanks everyone, for the opportunity. It was a privilege serving you. And thanks Bicol for being there. It was a joy being there, too.

What exactly did we bring to Bicol? Yes, we brought supplies, books etc etc. But what really was important for the children there was our presence in the mission areas, our smiles, and our time spent with them. So, to our teens: never mind if you drew that line off centre. Never mind that you painted the wall a shade darker than required. Never mind if you forgot to bring extra Milos and biscuits. Never mind that you sang that song dissonantly. Never mind if you spoke so fast like a the MRT that the local kids didn't understand you or the local kids thought you were an idiot. Never mind if you woke up late, or clogged the toilets, or wore the wrong t-shirt. Or you came up late for prayers and meals. Or you made a nuisance of yourselves, whether at the dorm, at the mission areas, or at the airports. Never mind if we were off-key a little bit during the Mass on Dec 14. Never mind.

For from the classrooms of the town, to the little houses of Tagaytay, to the devastated landscape of Masarawag to the far-flung hills and vales of Dona Mercedes, you made the children smile and laugh and feel loved by a people from another part of the world. You brought joy to them, even for a moment. You saw how they welcomed you, and valued your company. And they saw the love and mercy and compassion of God in you.

We painted and sort of refurbished the Dona Mercedes chapel in 3 days. Jesus died and was resurrected after 3 days. Remember his promise that he would build God's temple in three days?

This has been a post-confirmation mission trip that will be etched in our memories forever, not just because of what we have experienced, but also because of the circumstances that surrounded it, and the blessings that God has bestowed upon it.

To God be the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

Last Blog From Bicol

2008-12-19T06:11:00.001+08:00

This is our last blog from Bicol as we are due to leave the hostel about 10.30 am to be ferried to Legaspi City airport so we can make it for the 1.40pm Cebu Pacific flight to Manila. Then it's a super-layover in Manila as we wait for our 8.30 flight back to Singapore. We're going home!

But leaving this place that has become so dear to each and everyone of us (in individually different ways) during our short stint has been difficult. We'll be leaving behind wonderful children who so welcomed us with open hands and cheerful smiles. At Guinobatan East and West, Masarawag, Republic Academy, Tagaytay, Pamasan and Dona Mercedes. Even the teenagers at St Benedict's Academy whom we serenaded in a carolling. Even Mrs Camba, the old lady whom we visited for a carolling session. Lola Kikay, the 98 year-old lady in Dona Mercedes. And then the volunteers, who so gave their time and efforts for this mission. We'll also be leaving behind the Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry's campus, which was home to us for two weeks and gave us the physical security that we needed.

We will miss the stunning countryside scenery, particularly at dusk. The imposing presence of Mayon Volcano. The beautiful moonlit and starry nights.

Each of us who went to this mission - from the mission leaders, to the parent chaperones, to the teenagers themselves - have a story to tell when we get back home. And I am sure these stories would inspire many more of our parishioners and teenagers to get out of their comfort zone and drop their preconceived biases about places they actually know little or nothing about, and go out and tell. If you are looking for your purpose in life, fellow teenager, seek no longer. God wants us to Go Out And Tell.

Already, some of the boys in this L908 group have committed to help plan and organise and actually accompany another mission trip to Bicol next year. They say they would do it whether or not the next batch of L9s would also go to Bicol. To me, that is one big achievement of this mission trip: we have managed to arouse among our youth the desire to go on a mission outside the comforts of their homes. There's so much that they can do, and their impact would be great. Even the priests at the Assumption Parish have acknowledged their potential.

We have already thanked everyone who helped us in this mission - our very supportive parish community, our families and friends, our support teams both in Singapore and Bicol. We thank them again here. And we hope that the young volunteers who received our scholarships - Debralyn, Elvie, Joel, Jhonel and Windel - will use their scholarship money (which, at 5,000php each isn't really much) to facilitate their education.

We also thank God for the many blessings and miracles that he has bestowed to this mission trip.

We will miss Bicol. Mayon. Guinobatan. The children. Legaspi. Halo-halo. The ubiquitous tricyle. We will forever be haunted by the sight of the lost village of Maipon. But some of us may venture to come back. And who knows, some of us may venture to go forth elsewhere to go out and tell the good news.

In a few minutes, the teenagaers will be up and about, making their last minute preparations and packing. Then it's going to be a quick breakfast, then a final briefing from Uncle Al. And off we go.

To God Be the Glory.

Thanks Be To God

2008-12-17T20:06:00.002+08:00

It was a carolling session that we will not easily forget for the rest of our lives. The venue: Dona Mercedes' Nuestra Senora del Carmen Chapel, which was repainted and refurbished by our teen missionaries for 3 days. The audience: villagers who came from all over the barrio, many trekking across rivers and hills just to meet the youths of Holy Spirit Church. Children from the elementary school and the day-care centre dragged their parents too. The performers: our very own teens.

With the Chapel filled to the rafters, the session started promptly at 5 pm, and what followed next was a series of spirit-filled songs that warmed the hearts both of the performers and the audience. While the audience sang along with the group when familiar carols such as Silent Night, Holy Night, Joy to the World and O Come All Ye Faithful were being sung, they tried hard to learn the lyrics of "new" songs such as By The Star, From A King, One Small Child, and Gentle Mary. There were many tears in the eyes of the villagers as we sang By the Star. We ended the session with A Christmas Wish, which was followed by our prayer song, Receive the Power. We ended with our signature song, Go Out and Tell. And thus ended our Guinobatan mission.

Earlier in the day, we completed the refurbishing of the chapel.
It pretty much included the repainting of the entire external structure, internal walls, sanctuary and scrubbing the floor, setting up ladders, and fetching water from the stream below -- a full three-day commitment. It was this single project in the entire mission that all had a hand in. And it was not a simple task to do. The result was a chapel that was ready for the village's Christmas services -- indeed a beautiful gift to the people of Dona Mercedes.

Still, much has to be done to repair the damage done by the natural disasters to the faith of the people here. While our coming filled the chapel to the rafters, regular services do not attract as many people. In fact, after our caroling, there was supposed to be a communion service, but the chapel's 8 pews were hardly occupied. Perhaps if we were given a chance to stay longer in a village like Dona Mercedes, we would be able to help to transform that -- energise the youths and families there, as well as the lay minister who could do with a more dynamic approach to animating a community like this one.

We also completed our three-day programme for the barrio's kindergarten and elementary schools. But more need to be done to these little schools in the mountain. The library and toilet facilities for the students were hardly adequate, while the brave teachers were simply trying to do their best in such circumstances. Also needing a relook are the type of pop dance steps being taught to kids as young as 7 years old. Some of these steps were ore suitable for the bars of Manila and Bangkok -- something which amused our young missionaries no end.

The village trekking teams also completed their three day tour of duty, thus bringing Christmas cheers to some of the most far-flung hamlets of this small Philippine town. In all, we visited 100 far flung houses, negotiating mountains and rivers. During the final day, we sent everybody out turn by turn to get everyone to see how the people in the villages and hamlets lived, and how they made do with simple things in life to survive.

A sore sticking point, however, was our cow donation. It was perhaps the first ever donation in the entire world which the donor didn't see. All we saw of it was an image in someone's cellphone claiming that it was the cow that we donated. It was reported that it was still walking on the way from Jovellar town, led by its previous owners. It was due to arrive at 5pm, but by the time our caroling was over - at 5.45, there was still no cow in sight.

But we finally had a positive visual of the cow when Sr Angeline, together with Anthony and Prof Pavilando, went up to Dona Mercedes the following morning to receive the cow. we have decided to call it "Lizzie the Cow".

The important thing is that we have just made a giant leap of faith in our young life - to go out and tell beyond the comfort of our homes, not just in Judaea and Samaria, but also to the ends of the earth.

We will let the individual blogs of some of our young missionaries tell their stories, and their facebooks and friendsters give a visual element to what they have done in this Bicol trip.

Meanwhile, please pray for us as we begin to make preparations to our long journey home. There are still some outstanding business Thursday, like a little party in Guinobatan East School, a little outing to Legaspi in the afternoon for some late shopping, and hosting the volunteers in a closing dinner in the evening.

Glory be to the father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

Dona Mercedes - Day 2

2008-12-16T22:42:00.002+08:00

Day 2 in Dona Mercedes, was pretty much the same as Day 1, with a difference: work on the chapel was nearly completed under the stewardship of Kenneth Toi, while the teams running the kindergarten and elementary schools (led by Jamie Bong and Timothy Low) were beginning to communicate more effectively with the young people. The outreach team, led by Jonathan Chng and Mark Lee, respectively, continued their delivery of supplies and relief goods in the far-flung hamlets, making morning and afternoon rounds of 10 houses each. Unfortunately, Jonathan was unwell in the afternoon that he was not able to continue leading his team. She was replaced by Jamie Bong.

There are many more stories to be told about this day, like how the outreach team led by Mark (and included Samantha Chia and Glen Koh, accompanied by Uncle Al), practiced their christmas carols along the way, stumbled upon a house with a karaoke set where they had a whale of a time singing, sang carols and checked blood pressure in several houses that they visited, strayed into Camalig town, and trekked for over an hour before reaching their first house in the afternoon. They also had a bonus: they passed by two waterfalls, including the Busay falls, which is supposed to be one of the more famous ones in teh region.

Jamie's group, which also included Bryan Chin and Cecilia Mahimy (Michelle Looi had dropped out in the afternoon to help out in the chapel), accompanied by Uncle Anthony, came across a 99 year-old woman who was overjoyed because nobody ever visits her.

The trekking groups saw how hard life in the mountains was. Jamie and the rest of the trekkers would be able to tell their stories in their respective blogs.

Another inspiring one was that of a villager who saw his reflection on the marble-tiled sanctuary in the chapel. Apparently, nobody has ever cleaned the sanctuary the way Justin Chan had cleaned it up inch by inch, layer by layer.

The team left Dona Mercedes by 4.30pm and motored off to St Benedicts Academy for an early evening carolling with Sr Analisa and the students, including some interaction. It was back to hostel by 6.00pm, and dinner as usual at 6.30. Night prayer was led by Glen at 9.00. It was pretty much slack for the rest of the night, with a big twist: lights down was set at 11.00. Sigh. But it was for our own good, as the next day promises to be our toughest day yet at Dona Mercedes.

Meanwhile, Jonathan was put into the sick bay, and is recovering well from the flu, while Sr Angeline had Pamela Tay have a warm bath also at the sick bay, so that she won't aggaravate her sore throat.
Planning for the Farewell/Thanksgiving Dinner is also underway, with Gerald Joseph, Jacintha Tan, Michelle Looi and Cecilia Mahimy plotting the entire programme. What a programme it is going to be. And three students from Republic Academy will be awarded scholarships!!!

Before I end this blog, I must report this heart-warming incident at Guinobatan East School while we were on the way to Dona Mercedes. Mark Lee, Timothy Low and Brian Chin asked the jeep driver to stop for a while, while they got down to seek out the Gr V-Special Class that they had lessons with. Apparently the class was having a Christmas Party on Thursday and they had invited us to come for their party. So our guys wanted to know the time. The guys saw the class doing some gardening work, and seemed oblivious to the Holy Spirit boys' approach. Then one girl looked in their direction, and on recognising Timothy, screamed out: "Timothy", and the rest of the class looked up and the single voice was followed by a joyous cacophony of childish joy. They dropped their tools, and ran and approached our boys. You should have seen the faces of those kids - and the reaction of our boys. Such was the impact our boys have made in this little town.

Continue to pray for us as we wind up our mission on Wednesday.

A Short Dona Mercedes Welcome

2008-12-15T23:12:00.001+08:00

The day's activities and the lack of computers in our HQ didn't give us enough time to upload pictures and do an exhaustive blog about today's events. So this is going to be short and sweet. We'll just post the most of the pictures later; otherwise just follow your friends' facebook.

We motored in 2 jeeps to the barrio of Dona Mercedes at about 8am. We reached the barrio at about 8.45am to a rapturous welcome from students and teachers -- a welcome which gave new meaning to the word "short" as the welcome was super long (more than 2 hours!!!), with lots of Bicol and Philippine culture and traditions on display. There were no less than four dances presented, three songs, and we also contributed our own number. We performed a series of praise songs. And the Majullah Singapura reverberated across the mountain barrio when we sang Zubir Said's obra maestra upon the request of the school.

Later on, we split ourselves into four groups: the kindergarten group, the elementary school group (2 sub-groups), the painting froup, and the outreach group (2 sub-groups).

Each of the outreach groups managed to reach their target of bringing relief supplies to 10 houses in the Dona Mercedes wilderness. Meanwhile, the chapel group made great strides in repainting the chapel the little house of worship. The school groups, however had difficulty communicating with the local children in English but were helped immensely by the Bicol University volunteers who were on hand once again.

We had a hearty lunch, with bananas and fresh coconuts thrown in.

Our mission group left at 4pm via the same jeeps that fetched us, and had dinner at 6.30pm.

We closed the night with carolling sessions at Mrs Fidencia Camba's house and Jeanalyn Conde's house in Calzada, and made our way back to the hostel by 10, beating the town's 10pm curfew for teenagers with one minute to spare.

We will continue with our Dona Mercedes mission on Tuesday and hope to finish what we want to do by Wednesday.

This is all for now, and please continue to play for us even as we begin to make our countdown for our departure on Friday.

Mass, a New Phase and Goodbyes

2008-12-14T21:58:00.006+08:00

In this entry, we are not going to talk about any storm as there are far more glorious news we’d like to share with you today.

Last night was one of those nights when the skies were crystal clear as far as the eyes can see. The moon rose above Mayon Volcano in a fresco so surreal that one could only look and stare in awe of God’s wonder. How great indeed is our God, and how wonderful is his creation.

But there was a tinge of sadness after the rosary session later on. Who wouldn’t be, when nine of our team were going home early the next morning. I could sense it in everyone. Our valued vanguards of the kitchen – Auntie Juliana and Uncle Richard, the dependable presence of Anne Tan, the cheerfulness and the smile of Samantha Pang, the inner strength of Nicholas Neo, the innocence of Frederick Tan, the intellect of Elizabeth Kow, the dependability of Sarah Mao, and the quiet simplicity of Cheng Yee Kei.

Our nine mission comrades left our hostel shortly before 6am aboard a 24-seater jeepney, accompanied by Pamela Tay and Prof Pavilando. Pamela later reported that their flight left Legazpi airport ontime and they should be well on their to Singapore by the time you read this blog.

As for those who remained behind to continue our work, we had breakfast shortly after the nine-man team departed, and proceeded to the Assumption parish. We reached the church just before 8am, just before the 8am Bicol mass started. We ran through the songs, and the liturgy, and met up with Sr Anna Lisa of St Benedict Academy who helped us in our set up. It was funny though that she repeated called Uncle Al as “Fr Al” consistently.

Sarah Tan was the commentator, and proudly announced the significance of Gaudete Sunday. We opened with Gather Us In, with Glen Koh and Daniel Seow assisting as altar servers in the Mass, and Samantha Chia and Jonathan Chng proclaiming the Word of God. They were all part of the entrance procession, with Fr Ben Abuelo presiding.

Brian Chin and Jamie Bong did a beautiful and inspiring interpretation of the Magnificat as the psalm, while Brian sang Alleluia.

The offertory procession included our own youths – Ivan Lam and Geraldine Mark – who offered a basketball and the Faith At Work booklet as a symbol of the vigour of our Holy Spirit Youth. We sang By the Waking of Our Hearts for the procession.

Sarah read the intercessions with a distinct Filipino accent. For the communion hymn, we sang Shepherd of My Heart, which is one of the most memorable songs of this journey for many reasons. And to round off the celebration, we finished off with “Go Out and Tell”.

Before the mass began we told Fr Ben that the congregation may not be able to sing the songs and mass parts we were singing. But he said we should not worry because participation at mass was in the heart and mind and the way people internalise the lyrics of whatever we were singing, not whether people can sing the songs or not.

Anyway, what Fr Ben said proved prophetic as Sr Ana Liza – the liturgy planner – came up to us and said the songs we prepared were very apt for the liturgy of the day and very inspiring.

After Mass, Fr Ben invited us to talk to their confirmation candidates who were due to be confirmed on Dec 22. So we sang a couple of songs for them, then Daniel Seow, Glen Koh, Sarah Tan and Timothy Low shared with them their confirmation journey. The candidates were listless and seemed uncomfortable. Then Uncle Al closed it by speaking to them in their own language, and led the singing of “Malo Malo” as well as the thanksgiving song “Give Thanks” which brought tears to the eyes of their candidates. Later on, Fr Ben told uncle Al that the parish might relook into its confirmation programme after seeing how we have done it at the Church of the Holy Spirit and after having seen our confirmands in action – fearless and spirit-filled witnesses to the Gospel.

It was back to the hostel by noon for lunch. After that we split into several groups. One group lead by Kelly motored to Dona Mercedes for their recce. Uncle Al went back to the convent to give a short liturgy music worshop for the liturgy planners there, while the rest either stayed back at the hostel or helped Amy and Sr Angeline do the marketing for breakfast.

The night ended early after carolling practice with supper prepared by Uncle David and Sr Angeline.

Our phase II has begun.

Please continue to pray for us – that our mission may affect the lives of the people here as much as it has already affected ours, and that we are delivered from any harm.

Meanwhile, Pamela reports about the departure of the nine:

Uh. Hello everyone!

Lucky for me, I was chosen to be the one to send them off. Although at first I was all 'How in the WORLD will I wake up?' when I was told that we were leaving at 5.15am, somehow, that was not a problem at all. Many of us were awake by then, and the day started with melodramatic goodbye scenes (for example, shouts of 'Don't leave me!' while doing theatrical reach out to each other poses).

I am guilty to admit that I was kinda hoping that their flight would be delayed for a few days. Oops?

Anyways, when we first reached the airport, they entered the checking in area immediately, and forgot to say goodbye to me. Well, of course I was rather irritated, especially since I really wanted to take a photo, until Professor told me that they were allowed to come out after checking in their luggage.

Typically, they probably didn't know about this 'after check-in' rule, so the Professor and I were both trying to catch their attentions in order to tell them about this. In the end, it was because I had forgotten to return Nick his cap (and I was jumping up and down with it cause I was trying to get them to go to the door...) that Nick and Fred went to the door and we were able to tell them about the 'after check-in' thingum.

Of course, I could have been wrong, and they actually knew that already! (Doubtful)

After we had breakfast at some neighbouring cafe, they had to board the plane... Thankfully, I finally got my photo!

We'll miss you all!

(P.S. OI! I NEED MY SHOPPING PARTNERS! I DEMAND YOU TO COME BACK NOW! CAN ALSO SHUN BIAN HELP WITH MISSION! [[joking]])

MISSIONARIES' DAY OUT

2008-12-13T17:10:00.003+08:00

It was a beautiful sunny day with a cool breeze on the missionary youth's day out of the hostel. But first things first -- the storm.

The tropical storm will enter the Philippine area of responsibility this evening and was 1,130 east of Bicol as at 4 pm today. Get your google earth and zoom in to coordinates 13.9°N, 135.5°E to have a visual of the location. International name is Dolphin, but it will be known as Ulysses in the Philippines.

According to the weather bureau here, Ulysses has intensified to 85km/h near its centre, with maximum gusts of 100km/h, and moving westwards towards Bicol at 19km/h.

Again, looking at your google earth, please look for Virac, Philippines. The storm is forecast to be 760km east of this town Sunday afternoon; 490km east by Monday afternoon, and 390km east by Tuesday.

Authorities have so far not raised any public storm signals.

Meanwhile, our party of 9 missionary youths and parents are still scheduled to fly back home on Sunday. Please pray for their safe passage.

It was a relatively light day for everybody today. We visited four churches - the Assumption Parish in Guinobatan, the 400 year-old St John the Baptist Parish in Camalig, the 300 year-old Our Lady of the Gate parish in Daraga, and the St Gregory's Cathedral in Legazpi City where our young people bought loads of religious and gift items for their loved ones at home.

At the Lady of the Gate Parish in Daraga, near Legazpi City

The rest of the day was spent at the city's Pacific Mall, where the young ones had a fiesta at Jollibee, a field day buying up every shoe that they can lay their hands on, as well as hoarding 3 guitars from the music store.

We were back at the hostel by 5pm.

The party leaving for home on Sunday are due to attend mass (in Bicol language) at 6pm Saturday evening. They are expected back in Singapore by 11.55pm.

Please pray for us as we serve the 9am Mass in English tomorrow.

STORM ADVISORY #1

2008-12-13T07:24:00.002+08:00

The tropical storm we have been talking about these last few days is known as "Dolphin." So watch out for bulletins about it in CNN or BBC. Anyway, here's the official advisory about it from Philippine weather authorities. I repeat, it is the first official advisory. Satellite image is accurate as at 7am Saturday, 13 December.

Weather Advisory no. 01

For: Tropical Storm (DOLPHIN) {0822}
Issued at 4:30 p.m., 12 December 2008

THE TROPICAL STORM OVER THE PACIFIC OCEAN WITH INTERNATIONAL NAME (DOLPHIN){0822} WAS ESTIMATED AT 1,600 KM EAST OF BICOL REGION (13.6°N, 140.2°E) WITH MAXIMUM SUSTAINED WINDS OF 65 KPH AND GUSTINESS OF UP TO 80 KPH. IT IS FORECAST TO MOVE WEST AT 19 KPH. THIS WEATHER DISTURBANCE IS EXPECTED TO GAIN MORE STRENGTH BEFORE IT ENTERS THE PHILIPPINE AREA OF RESPONSIBILITY (PAR) BY LATE TOMORROW. THIS WEATHER SYSTEM WILL START TO AFFECT BICOL REGION AND EASTERN VISAYAS STARTING LATE MONDAY AND BRING SCATTERED TO WIDESPREAD RAINS.

LIKEWISE, THE DIFFUSED TAIL-END OF COLD FRONT WILL CONTINUE TO PERSIST UNTIL TOMORROW OVER SOUTHERN LUZON AND BRING FREQUENT RAINS PARTICULARLY THE PROVINCES OF QUEZON, CAMARINES NORTE, CAMARINES SUR, ALBAY, SORSOGON, MASBATE AND CATANDUANES.

RESIDENTS ALONG THESE AREAS ARE ADVISED TO TAKE ALL THE NECESSARY PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES.

THE NEXT UPDATE WILL BE ISSUED AT 5:00 PM TOMORROW (SATURDAY).

Al's note: By 8am, it should be about 1,480 kms east of Bicol. Please continue to pray for our mission trip, even as we continue to take all necessary precautions.

Typhoons and Calming the Waters

2008-12-13T00:27:00.003+08:00

Friday's outreach in Tagaytay was another day full of miracles.

It started with great uncertainty with news of a storm looming, and accentuated by a downpour throughout the night till the early hours of the morning. But the early morning prayer conducted by Sr Angeline and Uncle Al's pep talk and honest updates on the typhoon calmed all fears and reassured everyone of God's ever-continuing protection.

A hearty Singaporean breakfast of bread and curry and coffee, prayers, and lots of waiting characterised the first part of the morning. It was raining when we took the bus for Tagaytay, but the sky gradually cleared and the downpour stopped. After a scenic but rough journey via Mauraro and Danao, we reached the disaster resettlement centre of Tagaytay. We were welcomed by the homeowners' association president, Mrs Marilyn Napay, and hundreds of children.

We set up our equipment on arrival, tried to understand the place and buckled down to work with our array of activities - games, party songs, praise and worship, stories, or simply making contact with the young children.

After lunch we split ourselves into two groups - one for praise and worship and entertainment with the children, and the other went to fetch water for the residents.

The praise and worship team worked really well with the children, teaching them action songs and reaching out to them with a variety of songs and games. The other group found out how difficult it was to fetch water to the households. First we had to fill our pails with water by getting the liquid from an artesian well.Then we had to lug the pails to the various households, by negotiating the steep slippery slopes. But we got to see how their 4m x 4m houses looked like, how basic their necessities are, and generally appreciated how they lived.
It was really inspiring to know how these people - victims of natural calamities in 2006 - are rebuilding their lives and getting on with it. Some residents have evens set up their little domestic cottage industries, producing handicraft and souvenir items. The materials they produced were so nice and cheap that we went on a shopping spree.

After fetching water, the second group joined the first and interacted with the villagers. ‘Many of them were like little small smurfs, all of which were so cute!’ said Melissa Chan, a member of our mission group. Many of us found the time to buy souvenirs as there was a major change in plan.

We continued playing with the kids while another group led by volunteers Mark Monatnez and Abon Suataron set up games. Eventually, they ran out of prizes to give away such that Uncle David and Uncle Al had to raid a little provision store and bought everything they can lay their hands on which can be used a prizes.

Just before our departure, some of went to the top of the Tagaytay hill to watch the sunset. Overall it was a great success as our last image of Tagaytay were the small smiling faces of the little kids as we rode into the sunset back to home base.

After dinner, our Bicol volunteers, again led by Abon and Mark Montanez, set up a camp fire outside the university's auditorium. It was probably one of the best campfires we have ever participated in. Anne Tan led us throughout the two-hour campfire, which featured praise and worship, campfire songs and some songs performed by uncles Anthony and Al. At first, we thought the campfire was going to be a non-event as there was a slight drizzle and there were rain clouds above us. I suppose, we were simply a people of little faith when it came to these things, as in the middle of the campfire, the clouds cleared, the rain stopped, and the December full moon came into view. We also celebrated the birthdays of Nicholas Neo (Dec 15) and Cheng Yee Kei (Dec 13).

Supper of noodles, curry and fruit cocktail wrapped up the day. And it was bedtime for everyone by 1am. We got to sleep late as the next day is rest and recreation day.

We began with a rainy morning, but a glorious, spirit-filled and faith-filled evening. No talk about typhoons and storms. As far as we are concerned over here, the Lord has calmed the waters. Look at His providence at every step that we make. He is truly with us and has been guiding us and protecting us every step we make here in Bicol. And this faith and trust was expressed rather eloquently and full of conviction in our individual sharing during the campfire.

Please pray for us as we continue our mission here in Bicol, and also please pray that the group returning on Sunday - Juliana, Richard, Anne, Yee Kei, Sam Pang, Nicholas Neo, Frederick Tan, Liz Kow and Sarah Mao - may have a safe journey back to Singapore.

DON'T BE ALARMED

2008-12-12T06:39:00.001+08:00

Good morning!!!

As at 6am today, the tropical depression being tracked by US Navy weather ships is now not going to make a direct hit on Bicol, if ever it becomes a full blowm storm or even a typhoon. Current location is north of Yap Island and Palau, just west of Saipan, moving westwards at 24kph with winds at 65kph, and heading for the island of Samar, south of Bicol.

According to our "weather experts" here, it is far too early to tell whether this depression will actually develop into a storm, as it has been gathering speed.

But authorities here have issued the alert signals anyway to inform people that such a depression exists, in order to get everybody at a constantly high level of readiness. We will continue with our planned activities today (in Tagaytay), unless expressly advised by local authorities, who know how to handle these situations.

We will take precautions, and God will do the rest.

The teens are still slowly rising at this time, while a hearty Singaporean breakfast awaits them. Pray for us, folks!!!

Fr Andrew ---- thanks for your good wishes and we hope we can be mentioned in the intercessory prayers at all masses this weekend. - Al

Day 3

2008-12-11T17:25:00.009+08:00

The day began with a miracle.

It had been raining from midnight to dawn, and by 7am there was no sign that the rain would soon abate and finally allow us to leave our hostel for our destinations. It was simply a grey and wet morning. Our agenda included Masarawag Elementary School, Republic Academy, and Pamasan. While Masarawag and Republic were schools, Pamasan was a little village which was to be accessed by our missionaries by trekking through lahar and paddy fields.

And it looked like the weather would thwart our Pamasan trek. Uncle Al was going to cancel the trek when Sr Angie asked everypne for a huddle around the entrance to the hostel, and led us into prayer. She asked us to sing the song "How Great Thou Art" prayerfully. In the middle of the song, the sky above us cleared, and before long, the sun rays came through the clouds by the time we finished the song. Just like in the movies.

If that was a sign of good tidings for us, then it was really a sign, for the Masarawag outreach led by Mark Lee went without a hitch. After an hour-long cultural presentation, which included the singing of the Singapore National Anthem, the team did their usual classromm teach-ins. They also painted one classroom, played games with the kids (basketball, and Uncle Al actually taught the kids how to play rugby), and became instant celebrities to their new-found fans and friends. Around 3.30, Uncle Al was informed that Masarawag is under Typhoon Signal 1. So all activities were stopped by then and all the teens were ordered back to their marshall point in the school. The team left Masarawag by 4pm and were safely back at the hostel by 4.30pm.

The Pamasan team made their trek an eventful and memorable occasion, complete with tadpole catching, giving gifts and relief supplies, and witnessing how coconuts are "harvested" from the tree, etc. The team was back at the hostel by 4pm.

The Republic team, led by Nicholas Neo achieved what they wanted to achieve in carrying out their activities in their sassigned school. They left the school at 4pm and arrived at the hostel by 4.45.

After dinner, the group had its daily evening prayer/sharing session, followed by carolling practice, and a briefing by Uncle Al on the typhoon signal situation. Supper was served (mee goreng, prepared by Uncle Richard - Daniel Seow's dad), and it was lights out by 12 midnight.

Pamasan Outreach

The 13-member Pamasan team, led by Samantha Chia and Geraldine Mark, trek through volcanic mud and soggy terrain across the devastated Maipon plains to deliver relief supplies to three families in the village of Pamasan.

Our teenagers in action in a Pamasan house.

Face to face with a very private water buffalo (carabao).

Spirit Filled Day

2008-12-10T21:53:00.007+08:00

The first official day of our mission in Bicol got off on a high note with our L9 missionaries becoming instant celebrities in the host schools. The morning began with Justin and Kenneth Toi leading the early morning prayer in the form of a praise and worship session. Breakfast consisting sausage, bread, and omelette prepared by Auntie Juliana and Uncle Richard followed.

Then we set off in two groups; one was led by Rae Chia and Sarah Mao who spearheaded 22 youths and volunteers to Guinobatan West Central School; and the other by Mark Lee and Timothy Low who led their group to Guinobatan East Central School. Uncle Al, Yee Kei and Anne maintained our supply lines (secured our food and drinks and gift and shortfalls) and eventually joined the West group later in the day. Auntie Juliana remained in the hostel the whole time as our prayer warrior for the day.

You may check the details of what we did in these schools through our respective blogs; no such details will be posted here to avoid duplication. Ask Michelle. Ask Andrea,. Ask Cecilia. Justin, Glen. Gerald. kelly. And a whole lot of them. Even the logistics team was mobbed. But suffice it to say that the experience was more than an emotional and spiritual one for us. We tried to reach out to the children, and they responded. And how we loved each other that they mobbed us for autographs wherever we went. They thanked us profusely just for our presence in their school. They got our friendster stuff. And more. We’ll just show some pictures here and you judge for yourself.

We were supposed to stay only till 4pm but the engagement between the L9 missionaries and the local children resulted in something really meaningful – that our mere presence was really welcome regardless of what we had brought or done in the schools.

Evening was relaxed, with dinner being served at 6.30pm. Team reflections and meetings followed, with a night prayer wrapping up the day. We are supposed to be practicing our Christmas carolling songs after the prayers, while lights out was declared at midnight.

Everyone is in high spirits as the day drew to a close.
Thursday will be interesting. We’ll split into three groups: the Pamasan trekking group led by Samantha Chia; the Masarawag School Outreach Team led by Mark Lee; and the Republic Academy Outreach Team led by Nicholas Neo. Another day, new experiences. We’re open to them, dear Lord.

Everybody else, please pray for us!

Day 2 Pictures

2008-12-10T21:53:00.006+08:00

Some pictures from Wednesday's activities at Guinobatan East Central School.

Mark Lee conducted a science class and had no problems making the kids understand what he was talking about.

Timothy Low (below) taught the kids something about the real life.

Reunions and First Meetings

2008-12-09T21:44:00.008+08:00

[edit]

For those of you who missed the Advance Party's arrival picture on Day 1, here it is.

L-R (Standing): Anthony, Richard, Daniel, Melissa, Samantha Chia, Nicholas, Glen, Kelly, Sarah Rae, Al, Prof Pavilando; (Huddled): Geraldine, Samantha Pang, Kevin, Juliana, Mark.

Day Two of our mission here in Bicol was a joyful reunion between the Advanced Party, who arrived Monday afternoon, and the Main Party who arrived on the following afternoon. Led by Amy and Sr Angeline, they were met by Uncle Al and Samantha at Legaspi's airport. Glorious weather welcomed the new arrivals, but with the majestic Mayon Volcano half-visible.

Here are some pictures of their arrival just shortly before 2pm from Manila on 9 December.

Unlce Al and Samantha brought the new arrivals for lunch to the halo-halo joint across the Pacific Mall, and proceeded to Guinobatan town from there. They reached the hostel by 5pm, where they were joyously met by the waiting bunch.

Many hugs and kisses later, the entire group received word from Singapore that Shannen has been taken out of ICU. We erupted in thanksgivng, and did a mini-praise and worship gig before the welcome dinner at 6pm.

Fr Dave Ramoso, the parish priest of Assumption Parish in Guinobana, blessed our mission with an invocation, while mission partner Prof Lani Pavilando and Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry dean Dr Amano welcomed us.

Uncle Al gamely agreed to accompany Republic Academy's Bing Herrea, while BUCAF's volunteers, together with Prof Pavilando, rendered a song.

More numbers came: this time from Republic Academy's volunteers.

Our missionaries responded with a rousing rendition of You Are Holy and Receive the Power, which set the tone for a memorable evening of fun and games!

Finally, the day ended with an evening prayer led again by Glen.

Signing off with smiles from the Main Party when they finally landed after a long flight delay!

:D

WHAT A DAY

2008-12-08T23:59:00.002+08:00

What a day it was to arrive for a mission trip. Heavy rains, delayed flights, but we arrived safely.

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=30036310&id=1015207002&ref=mf

Daytime temperatures dropped in Bicol to 22.2 degrees Celsius Legaspi City as heavy rains pounded the Bicol region for the fifth straight day. And it's going to get colder in the nights and before sunrise. The weatherman says its going to be even colder in the next few days.

Coldest temperatures for the day usually are usually registered between 4 and 5 am, before sunrise. It gets warmer for the rest of the day.

Anyway, we were met at the Legaspi Airport by Prof Pavilando and Ms Bing Herrera who had two vehicles -- one for our luggage and relief goods another one for ourselves. After an interesting light lunch in Legaspi City (just outside Pacific Mall), we motored to Masarawag for an ocular. It was an emotional moment for us as we came face to face twith the many aspects of Bicol: the Mayon Volcano, which dominated the landscape with its imposing and awe-inspiring perfect cone, the poverty, the hardiness of the people. We even passed by Maipon, just before Masarawag, which was being indudated by floodwaters cascading down the volcano.

We also had a quick ocular of Republic, Guinobatan West and Guinobatan East. Ms Herrera said it was not possible to do an ocular of Tagaytay as the road leading to the mountain resettlement area was under floodwater.

Had a nice long dinner at the Casa Basilisa. Wrong, it was super long.

We were all back at the hostel because of the curfew, but we will rise again tomorrow to begin the work of mission entrusted to us by God.

Uncle Al and Samantha Chia will meet the Main Party at the Legaspi Airport on Tuesday slightly past 1pm, so long as there are no flight delays. The mission has begun!!! More reports as they come in.!

FLASH REPORT

2008-12-08T18:03:00.001+08:00

This is a flash report from mission leader Al.
We arrived in Bicol at abiut 2.30pm, about one hour behind schedule, but safe with the grace and blessings of God. Basically, the objective of this blog is to alert you all on what to expect on the way to Legaspi City Airport from Manila.

First, get someone to hold your baggage tags issued by Cebu Pacific. We had problems with the baggage tags and it caused us delays in customs clearance, both at Manila and Legaspi Airports. Each checked in luggage should come with one.

Second, you will have to check in as groups according to our e-tickets, whether you are at Singapore's Budget Terminal or Manila's Terminal 3. Alert someone from Cebu Pacific that you are travelling as a group and are checking in as one. This would greatly facilitate your check in.

Third, there is a long lay-over at Manila Airport. You can spend a bit of time at level 4 where you can find Jollibee, Mr Donut and Kopi Roti for your stomach's entertainment. Good burgers. Good chickens. Our guys played cards and slept in the area. But closer to the check in time, you can already move to the departure lounge. Tax at the airport is 200php. Inside the departure lounge, there are more food outlets and souvenir shops. The announcements could be difficult to understand as they are made in their usual Philippine authoritative monotone.

Won't have time to talk about other details of our arrival, but according to the hosts, it has been raining the past five days, and the sun was nowhere to be seen. But the sun briefly showed its face on our arrival. Portents of good things to come? Even the volcano was in full view.

Anyway, youth mission leader Samantha Chia and myself of us will be at the Legaspi airport tomorrow to meet you.We hope your flight won't be delayed. The Philippine Airlines flight before us was cancelled!

So while we set up our base here, godspeed everyone.

One More Day!

2008-12-06T16:29:00.001+08:00

One more day to Confirmation two more days before our Advanced Party, led by Uncle Al, descends upon Guinobatan town. We're literally on the edge of our seats and raring to go, especially following a two-day Youth Conference that saw us being prayed over by all the youths and adults present, again led by Uncle Al (where did he come from???).

Anyway Saturday morning and mid-day was spent on another detailed briefing on safety procedures by Daniel Seow's dad, Uncle Richard, who is with the advance party. I am sure we will keep the pointers he made to heart. Not too bad really. Lots of common sense. Then Uncle Al proceeded with the final administration and departure formalities: collection of indemnity forms, distribution of bag tags and coloured strings, finalisation of particulars. And finally, we did the packing of the goods that we would be bringing. Came up to about 15 boxes!

It was quite a chaotic scene in the room where the packing was being made, with catechists, parents, godparents and the young people themselves joining hands in boxing up the goods. With so many people helping out, the seemingly daunting task became a breeze. Later on, after lunch, a small group of us caught up with Uncle Al at Music Plaza (in Thomson Plaza, just across the road from our church) who was buying a Yamaha classic guitar to be brought to Bicol as a gift. Honoured with the task of transporting it was Kenneth Toi, who is travelling with the main party on Tuesday. Then Kevin Ke dropped the bombshell: his maid's family is from Guinobatan!

And so, everybody, were on the way soon. Sr Angeline said there will be many surprises waiting for us when we get there. Let us pray for each other! - Apha Mission Omega

Countdown Continues

2008-12-04T21:44:00.000+08:00

Four days to Confirmation and five days to Bicol! And we haven't started packing. The youths are still busy with the two-day Youth Conference, while the catechists are busy running here and there tying up the loose ends such as safety, emergenecy preparedness, insurance, last minute fund raising, and every imaginable administrative detail. Perhaps we'll get our packing underway by Friday to Saturday. We'll, we'd better!

We are sure that our friends over there in Guinobatan are also frantically preparing for our arrival, inclyding the youths from BUCAF and Republic, as well as Prof Pavilando and her staff, Ms Herrera, and Fr Dave Ramoso. Well, just a few more days and we will clasp each others' hands!

And while we're in the proecess of preparation, a nice thought just came into my mind. An ambassador is someone who repsesents something to others. For example, we have ambassadors from one country to another. The ambassadors represent their country and the other country expects the ambassador to act for and make decisions for their home country.

And so too we are to be ambassadors of Jesus Christ! We are to represent Jesus to others, especially our peers. We are ambassadors of Christ to each other!

And while we are in this countdown, let us thank the Lord for inviting us to be His ambassador. In this Mission trip and as always, give us the strength to represent you faithfully!!!

Let Us Not Be Afraid!

2008-12-02T18:54:00.001+08:00

Six more days to confirmation and seven more days to the mission trip! And 30 of us are going to Bicol, accompanied by 8 adult guardians, including 2 parents and a godparent.

The last week has been tough for everyone involved in the mission trip. But let us remember that Christ never lets us down. Never! And sometimes it's hard to believe that, because we all have had the experiences of friends who have let us down. But Christ will not. How would our lives be different if we trusted Christ completely? Have you ever thought of how we would act if we never feared being let down by Him? So we should never be afraid. We must trust Him completely as we go forth to Mission.

In our friendships, we have surely let others down. Let's think of a time recently when we have let down our father or our mother, our brother or our sister, our catechist and our friends? Let's reach out to them sometime today or perhaps tomorrow and tell them that we are sorry for letting them down. Let's tell them that we are going to work hard at not letting them down in the future.

Lord, we want to trust you completely as we go for our mission trip. We are so glad to know that you will never let us down. We'll follow your ways so that we can have eternal life with you. Thank you Lord. - Alpha Mission Omega

BICOL HERE WE COME!!!

2008-12-02T11:36:00.001+08:00

Yes we know, we're never complete, but this picture is the closest ever that we've had that NEARLY everybody is present. Glen and Timothy aren't in. But, hey, here's the group, and Bicol, here we come!

This picture was taken after Confession during our pre-Confirmation Retreat on 21-23 November. The day before, we had our Mission Day Camp. Please pray for us that we may have a safe journey to Bicol.

They Recognised Him (Luke 24:31)

2008-12-01T18:01:00.000+08:00

It is now just seven days before our Confirmation rite and eight days before we leave for Bicol. As we make our final preparations, let us call out to Jesus to remain with us along the many roads to Emmaus of our time. May he be our strength, our point of reference, our enduring hope.

To do this, let us remember the story of the disciples walking on the road to Emmaus after Jesus' death? (Luke 24:13-35). The disciples were despairing. They thought they had lost their best friend forever. They were down in the dumps. They were losing hope. Then Jesus appeared and walked with them, restored their hope.

What can we do to walk with our friends who are ill, injured, or simply down the dumps, so that we can help them to have hope again?

Jesus, thank you for not leaving us, for always being with us, and for walking by our side. Help us to be a friend like you, to walk with our friends in their time of despair, to bring them a sense of hope in your name. - Alpha Mission Omega

Eight and Nine to Go!

2008-11-29T08:12:00.000+08:00

Eight days to check in. Nine days to boarding that Manila-bound plane so that our Mission team can get to the Mission area. Logistically we're still in shambles but the teenagers have done what they can and the Lord will take care of the rest.

So it's going to be a week of prayer sessions for our injured L9 members, success of the Youth Conference (most of us are going for this), safety and deliverance for the Mission Trip, packing, packing, rehearsals, rehearsals, and what not. Then there's the confirmation rites on Dec 7, just hours before our Advance party leaves our Holy Spirit Church base for the Airport, then check in by 10.40pm, and depart after midnight on Dec 8 aboard Cebu Pacific.

One of our mission members is still in Bangkok, unable to return today because of the situation at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport. Pray for her and her family's safety, and that she can make it back to Singapore to take her place in the Main party that departs on Dec 9.

But take comfort, everybody. The Lord promises thus:

“All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” Mt. 28:18-20.

“… be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Josh. 1:8

So don't forget to come for our final pre-departure briefing; come in your mission Red. And don't forget to bring your parents. Venue: AV Room (above the catechists' office), just beside the entrance to the church premises along Upper Thomson Road. Time: 2 pm. Pls be punctual.

AN ANNOUNCEMENT, BUDDIES, FACTS AND FIGURES

2008-11-18T11:22:00.002+08:00

Three weeks to go. THREE WEEKS!!! And in between is our Confirmation Retreat (21-23 November), Praise and Worship and Rehearsal (29 November), Mission Meeting With Parents (30 November), Youth Conference (4-5 December), Praise and Worship (Dec 6), and finally, Confirmation (Dec 7) with no less than Archbishop Nicholas Chia and the entire parish community sending us off on our Mission!!!

Not forgetting our rehearsals to prepare for this mission trip, with school camps, meetings etc etc on the side -- no wonder life is just worth living and serving is just wonderful.

But before we go to the Confirmation Retreat, let us not forget that we have this one-day Mission Camp this Thursday, 20 November, in our Auditorium. It's from 9am to 5 pm. Be prepared, mates!!!

OK Here’s the revised buddy system for the various departure dates:

Advance Party, 8 December:

Al, Sarah Mao, Daniel, Kelly
Anthony, Glen, Sam Chia, Rae
Juliana, Kevin, Melissa, Geraldine
Richard, Sam Pang, Nicholas, Mark

Main Party 9 December:

Amy, Brian, Ivan, Pamela
Sr Angeline, Frederick, Kenneth, Michelle, Clarice
Jamie, Jonathan, Scott, Jacintha
David, Gerald, Andrea, Cecilia, Sarah Tan
Anne, Yee Kei, Justin, Timothy, Elizabeth

Phase 1 Departures, 14 December

Juliana, Sarah Mao, Elizabeth
Richard, Frederick, Scott
Anne, Yee Kei, Nicholas, Sam Pang

Phase II Departures, 19 December

Al, Daniel, Kelly, Melissa, Timothy

Anthony, Glen, Sam Chia, Rae Chia

Amy, Brian, Ivan, Pamela, Geraldine

Sr Angeline, Kenneth, Michelle, Clarice, Justin

Jamie, Jonathan, Jacintha, Mark, Kevin

David, Gerald, Andrea, Cecilia, Sarah Tan

Facts and Figures

Here are some facts and figures about the composition about the Mission Trip to Bicol:

a) There are a total of 31 travelling teenagers: 14 boys and 17 girls.
b) Of this number, 29 are 15 yrs old (all in Third Yr High School). while two are 19 (or close to 19), both in college or university.
c) There are 14 boys and 17 girls. Both of the older teens are girls.
d) Here is the distribution of the type of schools the younger teenagers are in:
- Boys: Catholic Schools – 9; State Schools: 3; Independent: 2
- Girls: Catholic Schools – 10; State Schools: 3; Independent: 2
e) The 31-strong group is part of a 108-strong cohort of students who will undergo the Rites of the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Church of the Holy Spirit, Singapore, on Dec 7.
f) They will fly to Bicol the day immediately following their confirmation. They will be accompanied by 9 adults.

OUR YOUTH HOSTS

2008-11-14T00:40:00.005+08:00

Our Youth Hosts

Here are some of the youths who will host us during our Mission Trip:

L-R: Jeana Lyn Conda , Hayacent Laspona, Abon Suataron, Marivic Oriza, Mark Montanez, Marvin Borras.

They are all freshmen at the Bicol University College of Agriculture and Forestry. According to Uncle Al, they were specially selected by the FITS Centre based on their involvement in the National Service Training Programme's Community Wellfare Training Service (CWTS). It was Mark who tagged the Mission blog a few days ago. Say hi to our host youths, everybody!!!

And here are our host youths/volunteers from Republic Colleges. They are youths between 14-16 yrs old, except for Risa.

L-R: Aleli Ondevilla, Debralyn Bien, Jonel Odoño, Joel Palmes, Elvie Morta, Risa Mijares, Windel Preña, Lizel Manes and Cindy Oxina.

OUR HOSTS

2008-11-14T00:15:00.003+08:00

Hosts and Partners

Introducing our hosts and partners for this Mission Trip:

(L-R) Samson A. Suarez; Prof. Leilani D. Pavilando (FITS Manager); Teresita M. Penilla; Rubi R. Orbeta; Myla L. Niro. Not in the picture: Mary Ann P. Caro.

Prof Pavilando is our prime mover in the Mission area. She will be assisted by her staff from FITS in facilitating our Mission work. Other than the Assumption Parish, FITS - an award-winning department - is our main partner in this Mission Trip. This team also facilitated Uncle Al's recce trip in October.

THIS WEEK

2008-11-11T19:02:00.001+08:00

HI PEOPLE!

Important Mission announcements this week and early next week.

Wednesday, 12 Nov
7pm, Auditorium:
Meeting of Leaders/Asst Leaders for Pamasan, Dona Mercedes and Tagaytay.

Friday, 14
7 pm, Auditorium:
Meeting of Leaders/Asst Leaders for Guionatan East and West, Masarawag, Republic and

Saturday, 15 Nov
5.00 - 7pm: Busking and CD sales (buskers wanted!!!)

Sunday, 16 Nov
All Masses - Busking and CD Sales
1 pm, Auditorium - AMO Meeting
2 pm, Auditorium - Mission Formation Session

Thursday, 20 Nov
9am-5pm, Auditorium
Mission Day Camp

Leaders and Assistant Leaders, meet your teams separately thereafter and take note of your logistical requirements. We will have to consolidate them by Thursday, 20 November.

FINAL GROUPINGS

2008-11-08T12:45:00.008+08:00

These are the revised groupings for the mission trip.

PHASE O: (Dec 8-9)

Airport Welcome, Dec 8: Prof Lani Pavilando (FITS Manager), May Ann Caro (FITS), Bing Herrera (Republic)
Airport Welcome, Dec 9: Samantha Chia (AMO), Al Dizon (AMO)
Various Recces, Dec 8-9: Team/Asst Leaders and LOs.

PHASE 1 (Dec 10-14)

GUINOBATAN WEST SCHOOL (Dec 10)
Team Leader: Rae Chia
Asst: Sarah Mao
LO: Riza Mijares (Republic), Rubi Orbeta (FITS)
Members: Kenneth Toi, Clarice Chau, Jonathan Chng, Kelly Tseng, Nicholas Neo, Ivan Lam, Gerald Joseph, Pamela Tay, Kevin Ke, Geraldine Mark, Andrea Tan, Sarah Louise Tan, Jacintha Tan.
Republic: Joel Palmes, Windel Prena, Elvie Morta
NSTP: Mark Montanez
Adult: Sr Angeline Lim, Anthony Tann

GUINOBATAN EAST SCHOOL (Dec 10)
Team Leader: Mark Lee
Asst: Timothy Low
LO: Myla Niro (FITS)
Members: Justin Chan, Cecilia Mahimy, Frederick Tan, Samantha Chia, Samantha Pang, Daniel Seow, Michelle Looi, Brian Chin, Elizabeth Kow, Glen Koh, Melissa Chan, Scott Lim.
Republic: Aleli Ondevilla, Ricel Palmes, June Amber Ramonel
NSTP: Vic Oriza
Adult: Jamie Bong, Richard Seow

MASARAWAG SCHOOL (Dec 11)
Team Leader: Mark Lee
Asst: Brian Chin
LO: Lizel Manes (Republic), Mrs Teresita Penilla (FITS)
Members: Timothy Low, Justin Chan, Cecilia Mahimy, Frederick Tan, Samantha Pang, Daniel Seow, Michelle Looi, Brian Chin, Elizabeth Kow, Glen Koh, Scott Lim, Anne Tan, Cheng YK
Republic: Aleli Ondevilla, Ricel Palmes
NSTP: Hayacent Laspona, Marvin Borras
Adult: Sr Angeline Lim, Richard Seow

REPUBLIC ACADEMY (Dec 11)
Team Leader: Nicholas Neo
Asst: Kevin Ke
LO: Lizel Manes, Mary Ann Caro (FITS)
Members: Sarah Mao, Clarice Chau, Kelly Tseng, Ivan Lam, Gerald Joseph, Pamela Tay, Kenneth Toi, Rae Chia, Sarah Louise Tan
Republic: Jonel Odono, Debralyn Bien
Adult: Jamie Bong

PAMASAN OUTREACH (Dec 11)
Team Leader: Samantha Chia
Asst: Geraldine Mark
LO: Bing Herrera
Members: Andrea Tan, Ivan Lam, Jonathan Chng
Republic: Joel Palmes, Ricel Palmes, Windel Prena
NSTP: Jeana Lyn Conda
Adult: Anthony Tann

TAGAYTAY (Dec 12)
Team Leader: Daniel Seow
Asst: Rae Chia, Samantha Chia, Scott Lim
LO: Bing Herrera (Republic), Rubi Orbeta/Mrs Teresita Penilla (FITS)
Members: All
NSTP: Mark Montanez, Marvin Borras
Republic: All
Adults: Sr Angeline Lim, Jamie Bong, Richard Seow, Anthony Tann
Advance Recce Party (Dec 11): Daniel Seow, Rae Chia, Justin Chan, Timothy Low, Scott Lim, Marvin Borras (LO), Richard Seow
PHASE 1 ROVERS:
AMO: Anne Tan, Melissa Chan, Scott Lim, Frederick Tan, Cheng Yee Kei
NSTP: Abon Suataron
Adult: Al Dizon

PHASE 1 LOGISTICS:
AMO Adults: Amy Lim, David Koh, Juliana Tan
Seconded: Jordan Oliquino
NSTP: Dec 10–Jeana Lyn Conda; Dec 11 - Mark Montanez; Dec 12–Abon Suataron
REPUBLIC: Dec 10 – Windel Palmes; Dec 11 – Risa Mijares; Dec 12 – Jorge Rabe
AMO: Dec 10 – Anne Tan;, Frederick Tan Dec 11 – Pamela Tay, Frederick Tan; Dec 12 – Mark Lee, Frederick Tan

PHASE 2 (Dec 14-19)

AIRPORT SEND OFF (Dec 14):
Leader: Pamela Tay
Asst Leader: Clarice Chau
LO: Prof Lani Pavilando

MASS (Dec 14):
Lectors: 1st reading Samantha Chia, 2nd Reading Jonathan Chng
Altar Boys: Daniel Seow, Glen Koh;
Psalmist: Brian Chin
Commentator: Sarah Louise Tan; Warden: Andrea Tan and Jacintha Tan, Clarice Chau and Cecilia Mahimy
Projectionist: Mark Lee; Offertory Procession: Gerald Joseph, Ivan Lam, Michelle Looi, Geraldine Mark; Choir: Kelly Teng (keyboard), everyone else (singers).

CHURCH SERVICE (Dec 14):
Leader: Glen Koh
Asst: Geraldine Mark, Brian Chin

DONA MERCEDES (Dec 15-17)
Team Leader: Kelly Tseng
Asst: Glen Koh, Samantha Chia, Kevin Ke
LO: Bing Herrera, Prof Lani Pavilando
NSTP: All
FITS: All
REPUBLIC: All
Advance Recce Party (Dec 14): Kelly Tseng, Sarah Louise Tan, Mark Lee, Brian Chin, Kevin Ke

CAROLLING (Dec 16 – 18)
Leader: Pamela Tay
Asst Leader: Kenneth Toi, Glen Koh
Members: All

PHASE 2 LOGISTICS:
AMO Adults: Amy Lim, David Koh, Anthony Tann
NSTP: Jeana Lyn Conda, Hayacent Laspona
REPUBLIC: Risa Mijares, Bing Herrera
AMO: Michelle Looi, Jonathan Chng

Group Picture ! ++

2008-11-03T22:07:00.002+08:00

Group Picture: Our mission shirts (:

Although some were missing, we'll get another chance to take another group picture! L-R, Front: Clarice Chau, Cecilia Mahimy, Pearlyn Pang (Support Team), Samantha Pang, Andrea Chuah, Kelly Tseng, Juliana Tan, Sr Angie Lim FMDM, Al Dizon (Team Leader); L-R, Back: Sarah Mao (face covered), Samantha Chia (Youth Mission Leader), Daniel Seow, Justin Chan, Frederick Tan, Nicholas Neo, Rae Chia, Kenneth Toi, Mark Lee, Jonathan Chng, Anthony Tann.

Some more pics!!!

2008-10-29T15:35:00.001+08:00

More pictures ! (:

This is the resettlement area for disaster victims at Tagaytay in Camalig town... People here are trying to rebuild their lives, but they have no schools yet, nor churches.
"so many kids everywhere!!!"

Guinobatan East Central School !

Masarawag Elementary School students saying "Good Morning, visitors!"

This is The Nuestra Senora del Carmen chapel at Dona Mercedes which badly needs maintenance.

And again,the mission t-shirt as modeled by the internationally acclaimed model La Nozid.

haha !

some photos

2008-10-29T00:01:00.001+08:00

left to right: Justin, Daniel Seow, Andrea, Melissa, Samantha Pang

Left to right: Andrea, Victoria Goh, Gerald

the T-shirt with uncle Al as the model

the taxi

Bicol trip Part4!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-10-28T23:47:00.002+08:00

Final Recce Report (Sorry for posting this late; Uncle Al is already back from Bicol)

To sum up his report:
a) That the food is safe, and that the health conditions are safe. There are no current advisories affecting this town.
b) That water served in various eating places is actually spring water; but he recommends that everybody stick to mineral water to be doubly sure.
c) That the areas we will be visiting are safe and secure.
d) He noticed the absence of mosquitoes everywhere. But we must bring insect repellant, anyway. There are other insects.
e) Of greater concern is the chance of sun burn and heat stroke, especially when we go to Masarawag, Tagaytay and Dona Mercedes. Everyone must be equipped with sunburn lotion and should be prepared to drink more water.
f) Friendly people will overwhelm us. Get ready to be overwhelmed.
g) If you get lost in Guinobatan town - it shows that you have no sense of direction as you have a map lol sorry that was kinda lame
h) Everythinghas been settled.

Uncle Al's final report:
Hi all,
I am now safe and sound in a Manila internet cafe after having arrived from Bicol about 4 hours ago via a comfortable 10-hour deluxe bus ride from Guinobatan. But we were greeted by a heavy thunderstorm on our arrival. After all, I am in the middle of the rainy season in this rain-soaked country.

I picked up the daily papers (after five days of no papers!!!) only to be dismayed by the bloodbath engulfing the world economy. Let us pray for each other and our parents and the people around us that we may last through this economic storm.

Anyway, Monday was another mad rush for Uncle Al and volunteers. Several tasks needed to be completed: had a short meeting with the Dean of the College of Agriculture and Forestry, the survey of Dona Mercedes and the finalisation of our activities there (we're going to be at Dona Mercedes for 3 days), and the completion of the mapping of Guinobatan town. On top of this, we needed to wrap up things quickly on Monday as we needed to be in Legaspi by 6.00pm to catch the 6.30 bus to Manila (we pre-purchased the tickets).

I met the Dean of the University's College of Agrculture and Forestry-- Dr Luis Amano -- who will readily make the Campus' wifi facility available to us (after its installation in December). He has also given his full support to our Mission through the institution's FITS (Farmers' Improvement Training Centre), where our Mission HQ will also be located. Dr Amano also made a vehicle available for our use, especially for our visits to the far flung mission areas of Tagaytay and Dona Mercedes. Also at our disposal is the university hall which we can use for our meetings, praise and worship sessions and meals.

Then it was off to Dona Mercedes at about 9am. After haggling with tricycle drivers at the Guinobatan market, we agreed on 240 pesos as the group's two-way fare. It was a bumpy 45 minute tricycle ride. On arrival the village officials welcomed us. The village is a small commmunity of simple and humble farmers who are being trained in more advanced farming technologies by the university. They have a small elementary school - about 200 pupils, a day care centre for 56 children below school going age. They also have a chapel where mass is celebrated only once in four weeks. But there is a weekly communion service rendered by some lay ministers from Assumption every week.

The village will be welcoming us with a cultural programme on Dec 15th, which will be followed by our school outreach (the usual stuff, minus the and home outreach), visiting farms (helping out in the chores in selected farms and homes). We will also be doing an outreach at the daycare centre, as well as getting the chapel and training hall painted. We may also be organising a carolling session which may be held during one of the nights. The officials also welcomed the idea of some missionary teens staying back in the village during one of the nights. The village officials treated us to a simple two-dish lunch after that (vegetable curry and stewed pork) and Pepsi. It was 1pm by the time we got back to the hostel. And I left my Milwaukee Brewers cap behind!!!! I must get it back when we return.

Meanwhile the other team managed to complete the mapping of Guinobatan town so that no one would get lost.

Reflecting on the last past few days in Bicol, the following were apparent to me:

a) That the food is safe, and that the health conditions are safe. The municipal health officer has assured me that there are no current advisories affecting this town.
b) That water served in various eating places is actually spring water; but I'd recommend that everybody stick to mineral water to be doubly sure.
c) That the areas we will be visiting are safe and secure.
d) I noticed the absence of mosquitoes everywhere. But we must bring insect repellant, anyway.
e) Of greater concern I think is the chance of sun burn and heat stroke, especially when we go to Masarawag, tagytay and Dona Mercedes. Everyone must be equipped with sunburn lotion and should be prepared to drink more water.
f) Friendly people will overwhelm us. Get ready to be overwhelmed.

And so, this wraps up my reports from the mission area. Regretfully I am not able to download pictures due to lack of time, but I will more than make up for it when I make my presentation on Nov. 2.

From Manila, and out of Bicol, this is Uncle Al signing off. Arriving in Singapore via SQ 919 tonight.

Well uncle al is in Singapore now haha!

Recce trip part 3

2008-10-27T08:33:00.004+08:00

Hi everyone
Summary of Uncle Al's letter: everyone please dress decently when we are serving mass very; decently, well be extremely decent, and the extent cannot be put into words. Well, sorry now I have no idea what I myself am saying. And dun worry we are on budget still!!

Original Message:
This is my update for Sunday.

I could have gone for the regular Bicol mass at 5.00am but I thought of going for the 9.00am mass in English. This is the Mass that we are going to serve in on Dec 14.

They have pre-mass prayers led by a commentator. Yes - there is a commentator who introduces every reading with a little summary, and generally tells people when to sit and stand. This person is the most prominent lay person during Mass as she occupies the ambo on the left (facin congregation) the whole time, while the priest, readers and psalmist take up the other ambo.

The sound is good as the church was built in the 1811. But if you are seated at the back, you would hear a bit of the echo. It is better to sit in front.

All those serving in the Mass are in white dresses, while the boys are in their formal black and white, and are students from the St Benedict Academy. They are supervised and trained by the nuns.

The songs -- they were all in English and I didn't know any. Only the Mass parts sounded familiar. One thing strange: they used the first verse from "We Remember" to replace "Christ has died... has is risen...".

Anyway, our team went around town after that to see how Sunday is like at Assumption parish. After lunch, we checked out food prices at the town's only supermarket, and finalised our meal arrangements with our caterer. We are pretty much on target as far as budget is concerned. Lunches and dinners would cost 110 pesos each. And we will be making our own breakfast.

Settled everything by sundown.

Monday we are going to Dona Mercedes, where we would be serving for three days during the Mission. And at 6.30 we will be able move back to Manila on a more comfortable night trip.

Recce trip part 2

2008-10-25T22:14:00.005+08:00

Details on Tagaytay in Camalig Town

Resettlement area for ~300 families
Lacking spiritual aspect
No worship place/school
Catechism lessons and games to help the children

Other details

weather can be unpredictable and might hinder progress
dorm has more facilities

Original Message from Uncle Al:

Was up and about at 4am to await the arrival of our two volunteers from Manila

Went to the town of Camalig, just beside Guinobatan, by jeep, and transferred by motorised tricyce to the mountain resettlement area of Tagaytay, where over 900 families affected by the disasters in the lowlands are being resettled by the local government units with the help of several international organisations. It wasn't an easy ride, as the low-powered tricyle had to negotiate steep inclines and rough roads up the mountain. But it was worth it because of the lush mountain scenery and the majestic Mayon volcano lurking in the background. There, I met the head of the homeowners' association of the resettlement area being built by the International Organisation of Migrants (IOM). Each house at the IOM-run area is about 4m x 4m - as big as the average bedroom of an HDB flat. This part of the resettlement area has 295 families who are trying to start a new life, and are now participating in self-help projects so they can begin leading normal lives. The spiritual aspect is lacking though as the huge community (including those run by USAID and the Italian Government) has no church or house of worship, or schools of any kind. Our visit there in December, which will involve games and catechism, will make a huge difference to the lives of the children.

Heavy rains disrupted our visits, but we managed to make our way back to Guinobatan by 3pm, after which I managed to join the group which had already begun mapping Guinobatan town for the benefit of our teen mission, as well as canvassed prices of some food items that we may use during our mission.

The day ended with dinner, and we're now all back at the hostel. (I am at the internet cafe though).

Sunday would be an early day starting with 9.30 mass for us, after which we will be going to another resettlement site in the barrio of Mauraro after the service. In the afternoon, we will be talking to the caterers and finalising our food arrangements. I should be able to send some pictures by tomorrow.

The weather has been hampering our recce team's progress everywhere. One moment it would rain lighlty, followed by burning hot sun, then heavy rain accompanied with winds. Exciting, you might say.

Meanwhile, I discovered that there are ironing facilities and very basic kitchen amenities (including a fridge) in the dormitory, and which we may want to take advantage of.

Recce trip Part 1

2008-10-24T21:36:00.009+08:00

Hi everyone,
Sorry for the delay regarding the Recce Trip. Uncle Al arrived in Bicol late last night after a 12-hour bus ride from Manila. There were no email facilities along the 450km journey, so he could not email us. Well to sum up what was in the letter:

Weather is a mixture of hot scorching sun and heavy but intermittent rain throughout.
Mission host/ host organisers are Prof Pavilando and Ms Bing Herrera
Dorms are in good condition but no HOT water (So good luck; Hope you like cold water, or remember to bring a kettle)
The 3 schools that we will be visiting are East Central School, West Central School, Masarawag Elementary School
On 14 Dec, we will serve in the Gaudete Sunday mass; We will need to organise choir, readers, altar servers, collections, psalms, readings etc (hint hint I wonder who Uncle Al is referring to )
Remember to go for the formation session on the 2nd November and it is compulsory

If anyone want to read Uncle Al's letter here it is:

I'm OK. Arrived late in Bicol late Thursday night after a long 12 hour bus trip from Manila. Actually it was longer than 12 hrs as I left Manila at 7.30 AM, but reached Guinobatan in Bicol about 9pm. My bus missed my stop because it was very dark, and I have to walk quite a bit to the University entrance.

I had a quick meeting with our host organisers (Prof Pavilando and Ms Bing Herrera) and one of the volunteers, Riza Mijarez), had supper with them, before finally resting for the night.

Then slept by midnight, I was up and about early Friday morning to visit some of the mission areas together with our mission host. We went to the East Central School, West Central School, Masarawag Elementary School, and was honoured with an "audience" with the Assumption Parish vicar, Fr Dave Ramoso. He has booked us to serve in the English Mass on 14 December - Full liturgy and all (choir, readers, altar servers, collections, psalms, readings etc). Plus a bit of sharing with their confirmation candidates due for confirmation on Dec 22... I have yet to meet the youth groups here. Our travles for the day was peppered with a mixture of hot scorching sun and heavy but intermittent rain throughout.

The hostel is OK, and I think everyone is going to have a good time staying there (no hot water though).

Tomorrow (Saturday) we're going to try to settle our food, visit a resettlement area (Tagaytay) to finalise our arrangements there. Etc etc etc...

The leg is a bit sore from walking around and the bones are aching from clambering up and down tricycles. Anyway I'm OK.

My visit to the East Central School was special because the school was having a UN Day celebration. Saw some kids gleefully flying the Singapore flag. Mighty proud...

Our main achievement today is this: We managed to get in touch with the principals of the three schools and finalised the arrangements for these when we come.Will let you all know in great detail during our Formation meeting on 2 November.

Tomorrow, two more volunteers from Manila are coming down to help us map the town.

This is all for now, and I hope all is well over at your end.

Next Formation Session

2008-10-21T17:49:00.006+08:00

Hi everyone, the next formation session is on the 2nd November from 9.30am to 4pm in the auditorium! Well, as usual, lunch will not be provided and its from 12.30pm to 1.30pm if any one wants to know. Oh and it is
COMPULSORY FOR EVERYONE!!! and yes this includes all adult companions so everyone please turn up and please do not use the excuse of not checking your email.
What will be covered:

Uncle Al's recce trip
Sister Angeline spiritual output on mission
Sister Angeline mission experience
Finalise the groupings
Plan of action until departure for Bicol.

Remember to turn up!! And Good Luck uncle Al!!!

HELLO EVERYONE

2008-10-19T22:37:00.001+08:00

Hi everyone,

Welcome to L9 bicol mission trip blog. The purpose of this blog is for our L9 missionaries, their families and friends to learn more about bicol and it is also a blog for the missionaires and their families to communicate with each other during the trip. This blog will be updated daily throughtout the entire trip for any enquires please email us at missionariesinbicol@gmail.com .

L9 please remember to look at this blog for further details on uncle al's trip and do not worry, we will try our best to update it as regularly as possible. :)