A Heart Full of Thanks:  The Story of Three MMP Partner Schools

Mission Ministries Philippines (MMP) expresses deep gratitude for the visit of Bro. Michael Villareal, representing First Congregational Church of Anaheim (FCCA). His presence brought encouragement, inspiration, and strength to MMP’s mission, particularly in supporting three key ministries serving the poorest communities. His visit was a reminder of God’s provision through His people, and MMP looks forward to the continued impact of this partnership.

Visit to AGBN Learning Center

AGBN, a long-time partner of Mission Ministries Philippines (MMP), has faced numerous challenges since its inception, including significant opposition and persecution from local community leaders, barangay officials, and even nearby churches. Despite these early hardships, the Preschool Ministry thrived, eventually leading to the formation of a church community comprised of the preschool’s students and their parents. The school then faced its greatest challenge during the pandemic when it was forced to close. However, trusting in God’s promise as mentioned in Philippians 1:6, AGBN reopened in year 2022 with renewed faith. Although the reopening brought about its own challenges—such as the need for essential learning materials like toys, books, and storage cabinets—MMP provided much-needed support. A particular need for a storage cabinet was met through the generosity of FCCA, leading school principal and teacher Ann Natividad to express heartfelt gratitude, affirming that God is faithful in meeting their needs.

Kaingin Baptist Church

Mission Ministries Philippines (MMP) recently launched Kaligtasan Kay Kristo (Salvation through Christ), an improved version of its PTA (Parents Teachers Association) program, aiming to integrate the Gospel into parental engagement. The initiative includes seminars on Parenting with a Biblical Framework to strengthen family involvement.

On January 31, 2025, MMP conducted a seminar on Understanding Children’s Behavioral Problems, anchored on Psalm 127:1. “Unless the Lord builds the, it is in vain …The session covered psychological insights on children’s behavior and included a Gospel presentation. Over 60 parents attended, and many prayed the prayer of salvation. FCCA provided free parenting books, and the training was led by Dr. Chonabelle M. Domingo, MMP’s Director.

Synagogue for Jesus                                                      

The school established the Remedial Reading Program, a non-formal Early Childhood initiative by Mission Ministries Philippines (MMP) focused on developing children’s reading skills. However, its implementation was delayed due to devastating floods that severely affected their community.

What seemed like a setback turned into a blessing when the FCCA community generously donated reading books, enriching the program with better learning resources.

Today, 25 students are actively participating in the improved reading program, benefiting from enhanced support and materials.

Looking Ahead: More Schools and Children Await

While we celebrate the progress made, our mission is far from over. Many more schools and children are still waiting for the opportunity to learn, grow, and experience the love of Christ. Our vision is to expand these ministries, reaching more communities and equipping them with the tools they need for lasting transformation.

We invite you to continue walking with us—through your prayers, generosity, and by sharing this mission with others.

Thank you for being the hands and feet of Christ, bringing light to those in need. Your faithfulness is a beacon of hope, and together, we are making an eternal impact!

A Word From The President

Dear MMP family,

Wednesdays are special days for MMP staff, dedicated to devotions and meetings. Mondays, however, are reserved for a unique practice: our chain prayer. During these moments, we lift MMP, our ministries, partners, and friends—our “MMP Family.” If you’re reading this, please know you’ve been remembered on a Monday!

On October 16, 2024, our dedicated staff member, Aida, led us in a devotional on Matthew 2, titled “Lessons from the Main Characters.” At first, I wondered if it was too early to reflect on a Christmas passage. But as I listened, God spoke deeply to me through the message, especially in the meaning behind the Magi’s gifts to Jesus:

  • Gold: What can I offer to show that Christ is truly Lord of my life?
  • Frankincense: Who might God be calling me to intercede for?
  •  Myrrh: What part of me needs to die so Christ can live more fully in me?

As we approach the season of giving, let’s ask the true Celebrant, Jesus Christ, what He desires from us this Christmas. Is it Gold, Frankincense, or Myrrh? May you have a blessed Christmas season!

Sincerely in Christ,

Dr. Corrie, Chona, Aida, Erlyn, Joshua & Ronald

Timeless Significance of The Magi’s Gifts

As Christmas approaches, it’s the time of the year, the old familiar story of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. The journey of Mary and Joseph, the humble and miraculous birth of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, the greatest gift the world has ever known, the angelic announcement of His birth to the shepherds, the journey of the Wise Men—who traveled from afar to worship the newborn King and offer their gifts—remains a powerful reminder of the profound meaning behind Christmas. All of these are familiar and yet resounding even after two thousand years.

The Magi brought three gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While these offerings may seem unusual to us today, each one held deep spiritual significance, both for the life of Jesus and for us as believers

Gold, the first gift, is universally associated with wealth and royalty, of kingship and authority.  By presenting gold, the Magi were acknowledging Jesus as the King of Kings, the long-awaited Messiah who would lead and guide His people. The gift of gold reminds us during this season that Christ’s kingship is one of service and salvation, and that true leadership comes from a heart willing to serve others.

Frankincense, the second gift, symbolizes divinity and worship. In the quiet moments of this Christmas season, frankincense encourages us to reflect on the divine presence in our lives and the miracle of God becoming human to walk beside us. Let us take time to worship Him, to lift up our hearts in gratitude and reverence for the wonder of God’s love made flesh.

Myrrh, the final gift, foreshadows the sacrifice that Jesus would one day make. Myrrh symbolizes suffering and death, but it also speaks to the hope of resurrection and eternal life. During this season of joy and celebration, myrrh calls us to remember the deeper purpose of Christ’s coming—to offer His life as a ransom for many and to bring salvation to all who believe.

As we celebrate Christmas, the gifts of the Magi serve as a reminder that the birth of Jesus is not just a story of a child born in a manger, but a powerful event filled with divine meaning. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh invite us to reflect on who Jesus is—our King, our God, and our Savior. These gifts also encourage us to give our best to others, whether in material offerings or acts of kindness and love, following the example of the Wise Men who brought their treasures to the feet of the newborn King.

Mission Ministries Philippines has long worked to instill in its preschoolers the true meaning of Christmas: that Jesus is the reason for this and every season.   We worship Him by using the talents and skills He has given us. This year, MMP will once again hold its annual Show of Talents and Kids Bazaar on November 29, 2024, at JFD Stadium, San Mateo, Rizal. Children from our partner schools will present their talents as gifts to Jesus. Just as the Magi brought offerings, MMP will share gifts, refreshments, and magical entertainment—all while spreading the gospel. As Christmas is a time of fellowship as one body believing in Christ, MMP will hold Partners Christmas Party on December 7, 2024 at Marikina Heights, Marikina City. Spreading love, joy and care for our fellow workers for Christ. 

Transformed Lives Through Preschool

As the school year begins, excitement fills the air for both children and parents, especially for those sending their first child to school. Fifteen years ago, that same feeling was felt by Mrs. Melanie Sinoy when she enrolled her eldest son in Jesus Cares Learning Center. But little did she know that it would pave the way for her family’s spiritual transformation.

Mrs. Sinoy shared that becoming a Christian profoundly changed her life and the lives of her family members. This significant transformation began when her first child enrolled in Jesus Cares Learning Center, a school known for its Christian teachings and values.

At the learning center, her child was introduced to the practice of prayer, which quickly became a part of their daily routine. Her child started initiating prayers before meals and praying before bedtime, mirroring the spiritual lessons taught at the school. These simple yet powerful acts of faith demonstrated the profound influence of the school’s teachings.

As her child embraced these practices, Mrs. Sinoy began to notice a gradual change within herself. Little by little, her heart and mind opened to God’s love. This newfound faith helped her to reflect on her life and make positive changes. She transitioned from being a non-believer who struggled with various vices to someone who was renewing her faith and striving to live a more virtuous life.

The impact of this transformation extended beyond her personal faith. Inspired by the changes in her own life, Mrs. Sinoy and her husband became deeply involved in their church community. They took on roles as deacons, dedicating themselves to serving others and promoting the Christian values that had so profoundly influenced their own lives.

Furthermore, the influence of Jesus Cares Learning Center continued to shape their family’s spiritual journey. Following in the footsteps of their eldest sibling, four of Mrs. Sinoy’s children attended the same school, ensuring that the Christian teachings and values became a cornerstone of their upbringing.

Through this journey, Mrs. Sinoy’s family experienced a profound spiritual renewal that transformed their lives and strengthened their faith.

Jesus Cares Learning Center a partner of MMP under the leadership of Ma’am Zenaida Ignacio and Teacher Claire Santillan, made it intentional in discipleship. They required students and parents to attend kids’ worship every first Friday of the month, inviting pastors to share the Word of God. And through this, many of their students’ family accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and
Savior. Including the family of Mrs. Sinoy.

God uses preschools like the Jesus Cares Learning Center not only to teach the basic concepts
of colors, shapes, numbers and alphabet, but also to demonstrate His love, making this life colorful and shaping us to our purpose He has designed us to be.

Enhancing Classroom Excellence – MMP Partners’ Practical Training

On July 11-12, 2024, a practical training session was held at Roots and Wings Learning Center in Marikina City, bringing together 38 teachers from various partner schools. This training aimed to enhance the skills and competencies of educators in alignment with this year’s theme, “Gurong Handa, Masayang Bata”; The theme underscores the significance of teacher readiness in fostering a joyful and effective learning environment for young students. The participating teachers engaged in a series of workshops and activities designed to equip them with practical teaching strategies and innovative educational tools, ensuring they are well-prepared to create a positive impact in their classrooms. The training also fosters relationships among the participants and the facilitators.

The training session was spearheaded by Dr. Chonabelle M. Domingo, whose unwavering passion for delivering quality education to underprivileged communities shone through in her lecture. Her enthusiasm and dedication were evident, and her presence greatly enhanced the confidence and knowledge of all attendees.

Dr. Domingo’s insights were both inspiring and enlightening, providing a solid foundation for the training. Her commitment to educational equity resonated deeply with everyone present, setting the tone for a meaningful and impactful event.

Supporting Dr. Domingo were the supervisors of MMP: Teacher Jezzelyn Amido, Maricel Minion, and Claire Santillan. These practicing teachers, who embody the philosophy of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP), shared their rich experiences and practical methods with the participants. Their firsthand accounts and effective teaching strategies provided valuable, real-world insights that participants could readily apply in their own educational contexts.

Additionally, Teacher Erlyn B. Isidro played as an overall coordinator of the event. The cooperation of everyone involved were instrumental in creating an environment where learning and collaboration could thrive.

Together, this team of dedicated educators created a dynamic and enriching training experience that left a lasting impact on all who attended. The combined expertise and passion of Dr. Domingo, Teacher Jezzelyn Amido, Maricel Minion, Claire Santillan, and Teacher Erlyn B. Isidro made the event a resounding success, furthering the goal of providing quality education to those who need it most.

Early Childhood Education Seminar/Orientation in Baguio City

Praise be to God for the remarkable opportunity to lead a three-part series of Mission Ministries Philippines’ Early Childhood Education Seminar/Orientation in the picturesque locale of Baguio City last March 18-19, 2024.

The inaugural session was held at Doane Rest Ministry, drawing in enthusiastic Sunday School teachers guided by the experienced Teacher Lalaine Clark, alongside dedicated Masteral students from the Philippine Baptist Theological Seminary under the mentorship of Prof. Raposa.

Another illuminating session unfolded at PBTS, graciously overseen by Pastor Onnie Avante, the Chairman of MMP Board, coinciding with the joyous celebration of the 30th anniversary of Jesus Our Life Ministries.

As we reflect on these enriching experiences, we fervently pray that the seeds of wisdom and inspiration planted during these seminars will take root deeply within the hearts and minds of all participants, blossoming into abundant fruit in the lives of the children they passionately serve. May God’s blessings continue to multiply the impact of our collective efforts as we nurture and educate the next generation, all to the glory of His name.

Celebrating Talents and Entrepreneurship: A Heartwarming Event in Honor of Jesus’s Birthday

Show of Talents and Kidprenuer Fair
by Erlyn B. Isidro

In the spirit of giving and celebration this Christmas season, Mission Ministries Philippines hosted its 20th Show of Talents and Kidpreneur Fair last December 1, 2023 at JFD stadium in San Mateo Rizal. The event was a remarkable gathering where students from 12 partner schools of MMP came together to share their unique gifts in honor of Jesus’s birthday.

One of the most inspiring aspects of the fair was the children’s entrepreneurial skills. The Kidprenuers set up stalls to sell their handmade creations and products. From handmade jewelry, eco-friendly crafts and delicious sweets, even selling of native products from Ifugao, Mountain Province as one of the partners came all the way from the Northen part of Luzon.

Adding to the event is the wonderful performance of the talented magician who captivated both the parents and children, adding an additional element of wonder and excitement.
Moreover, MMP invited Pastor Vergilio Lapena, former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of MMP and now one of its International Adviser, to impart the true meaning Christmas and that is the love of our heavenly Father. He sent His Son Jesus Christ to save us. This is the main objective of the event to spread the Gospel to Jesus.

A beautiful smile of one of the partner schools after their performance.

Dr. Philip Paleracio, a Filipino Doctor in U.S. and friend of one of the International Advisers of MMP also graced the event and gave an inspiring message to all present.

The “Show of Talents and Kidpreneur Fair” was a resounding success, not only in terms of talents rendered and products sold, but also in fostering a sense of community, encouragement among the partner schools, the parents and the students. And as we reflect on this joyous occasion, let us remember the that Jesus Christ is God’s greatest gift to us.

“God’s Plan for Family: Nurturing Parenting Seminar”

A Parenting seminar was conducted by Mission Ministries Philippines and partner school Head Start Learning Center last February 8, 2023, at Bagong Silangang, Quezon City.

Dr. Chonabelle Domingo the speaker of the said seminar, highlighted the purpose of God for creating a family and the challenges faced by parents in today’s fast-paced and rapidly changing world. The lecture covers other topics like Understanding the Behavioral Problems, Nature of the children, and Disciplinary Measures.

During group discussions, participants had the opportunity to express their own thoughts and experiences, which sparked parent cooperation and networking. Parents can impart knowledge and insights and learn from one another during the event.

In the end, the attendees were grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow as parents and expressed their appreciation for the organizers’ efforts.

ECE Seminar at K.I.L.A.

On March 17, 2023, Kids International Learning Academy (KILA) in Binangonan, Rizal, hosted a seminar on Early Childhood Care, organized by Mission Ministries Philippines (MMP). Ms. Elizabeth Anne King-Santos, an expert in early childhood education and the author of MMP’s Toddlers Curriculum, led the seminar as one of MMP’s on-call trainers and consultants. Ms. Santos is also a preschool owner and homeschool educator, a professor in the Training Certificate of MMP and ATS, and a regular speaker in the annual ECE seminars of MMP.

The seminar covered various topics such as Philosophy in Early Childhood Education, Assessment, Methods of Teaching, Classroom Management, and Classroom Discipline. The principal and part-owner of KILA, Ms. Joan Ong, organized the seminar. Ms. Ong is also the author of MMP’s Math Made Easy book and a former seminar lecturer.

KILA started as a small preschool in a small space in partnership with MMP in 2000. Over the years, it has grown into a prominent school in their area, offering Secondary education to the children of missionaries. The seminar marked a revival of their partnership with MMP.

ECE Batch 2022 Get Together

The new batch of students of the Training Certificate in Early Childhood Care and Education or ECE modules finally had their first face-to-face get-together last November 26, 2022, at the Peri Peri Restaurant in SM Megamall.

This was attended by some students that have access to the venue since some students of the ECE are from different places as far as Catanduanes from the South and Isabela from the North and even a student from Jakarta, Indonesia.

It was an opportunity to interact with each other personally. Sharing laughter and best wishes to everyone. The group also agreed that this will be just the start of many get-togethers.

In the course of the Pandemic, this program was inactive since there were no students enrolling. In April of this year, finally, students started enrolling and started the program again.  This program is being offered online.

The Training Certificate Course in Early Childhood Care and Education, a joint program of Mission Ministries Phil. and Asian Theological Seminary was created in response to the growing need of offering quality Early Childhood Care and Education distinguished by a biblical perspective.