Category: MMP Partners

Aug 02

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.

Aug 02

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.

Apr 03

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.

Dec 04

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.

May 04

“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.

May 04

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.

Dec 17

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.

Oct 03

Successful Alumni of Partner School

Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it” a banner verse of MMP and its partners. One that has made an impact on a 4-year student of one of MMP’s partners, Praise Rotary Emerald Academy operated from 1999 to 2004. The school was situated in Payatas, one of the underprivileged neighborhoods in Quezon City. Pastor Dante Paule and his wife, teacher Margie Paule, served as its leaders.

And only recently did this former pupil get in touch with Teacher Margie to let her know that she and her brother, who was also a student at the aforementioned school, had just graduated and were now doctors. The teacher was both humbled and proud to learn that the young pupils she had formerly taught were now accomplished professionals in their industries.

The family of the said children was junk shop owners before. They have now alleviated their family income status and were able to send their children to medical school. And what a transformation indeed to the family.

In 2004, teacher Margie and her family moved to another location in Calamba, Laguna, and set up another school named Tech-Grow Kids Developmental School. The former school was then managed by another teacher and relocated to Montalban, Rizal.

From 2004 to the present, The Tech-Grow Kids Developmental School has produced other successful students. One more deserving of mention graduated from U.P. Los Banos, Cum laude, Now a teacher at a Bible school in Calauan, Laguna. Both of the schools’ are Dep Ed recognized.

In addition to producing excellent pupils, the schools also generated students who have become Christians. Their church now counts them among its members and workers.

Preschool can truly be considered a ministry of the church that transforms lives and spreads the gospel.

The amazing tale of this partner school truly embodies the goal and mission of Mission Ministries Philippines, as it is said that “No teacher becomes a millionaire, but our riches are when our pupils or students become successful in life.”

Nov 12

A Way in the Wilderness: Mission Ministries Philippines’ Journey During PANDEMIC Season

In March of  2020, the government issued a lockdown on most parts of the Philippines. What we thought of as a short-term lockdown has now gone to almost two years of unprecedented events.

This tiny bit of virus has claimed millions of lives and altered the course of life throughout the world. Everyone was affected, and education is one of them.

In the first months of lockdown, Mission Ministries Philippines still hopes that everything will return to normal.  But as the days went by, reality set in. For many who are not tech-savvy, we were all caught off guard.

Fear may have paralyzed some of us, but by the grace of God, He gave us courage, wisdom, and perseverance. The pandemic brought changes in the way we do things but we strongly believe that this should not stop our work. With limitations in meeting physically, we find ways to continue on what we are called to do, “TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION”, still meeting the needs in Early Childhood Education and strengthening families and communities whatever it takes.  So in May 2020, MMP offered its first webinar to its partners about Blended Learning and Homeschooling via zoom. Our speaker Professor Bing Amihan introduced the terms synchronous and asynchronous learning, which most of our partners were unfamiliar with. This method of teaching is being used in western countries. Though there are limitations in the Philippines, it is still applicable. This encouraged most of the partners to continue their preschool operation despite the drop of enrollees. And to further explain and help apply the knowledge learned in blended learning and homeschooling webinars, Mission Ministries supervisors piloted the practical training. The supervisors presented the strategies, materials, lesson plans, online play, and online applications the partners can use to cope with the technology adopting synchronous and asynchronous learning.   Shifting into the new platform should not deviate our developmentally appropriate practices philosophy in teaching to our students. As we learned from Prof. Bing “there are still non-negotiable principles like integration of God’s word, Christian values, and good character.

As the world started embracing the digital age, Mission Ministries Philippines explored other possible ways to continue its mission in serving our partners and our advocacy to provide better education to indigent children.

MMP’s thrust that no child is left behind is a must!!! MMP  is committed to caring for the children and shaping them into what God created them to be. Providing access to basic needs on their development and enjoying their childhood. Furthermore, the pandemic season made MMP revive its feeding program, but this time with a significant tweak in its feature, thus we call it “Feeding the Mind & the Body” (FMB), where the feeding program is integrated into the existing curriculum of MMP. MMP Partners, are given the option to integrate its feeding program with Sunday school lessons, Remedial Reading or Kidpreneur, or teaching business skills for children via the online and face-to-face platform.

Moving on…. All MMP seminars were geared toward maximizing technology in delivering quality education without compromising our philosophy. Speakers emphasized the importance of building relationships between teachers and parents as they hone their children’s potentials. Resource persons enlightened the use of technology and the danger it brings to the children. Research shows that too much exposure to screen time can hamper the brain development of children. The webinars also laid principles and ways to sustain the school operation.

With all these worries and stresses brought by the pandemic, it is a fact that many have suffered from anxieties and mental health issues. So in response, another webinar was conducted addressing this issue.

Aside from these seminars, supervising the partners was also done online. Partners were encouraged to attend the classes of the supervisors for them to observe the online classes and process them afterward. In the same way, supervisors were able to observe and coach the online classes of partners.

The pandemic may have closed many doors but new opportunities were opened to MMP by God’s grace. Mission Ministries herald to preach the gospel to the children have now intentionally reached even the parents by administering parenting seminars. These webinars not only give guidance for good parenting but most especially in preaching the gospel of salvation.

The pandemic may have momentarily thwarted the course of MMP and yet God used this to flourish and spread its roots to reach others further. Now MMP can now post a new challenging question to possible new partners. Would you like to set up or enrich your existing Early Childhood Program like Preschool, Daycare, SNP ( Supervised Neighborhood Play, Stimulation Center, After class program or tutorial program for children …. What do you prefer  ??? Face to face or On-Line?????.

See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. —Isaiah 43:19

Oct 12

The Path to Success

In its continuing mission to share the good news of salvation to the parents of partner schools of Mission Ministries Philippines, the 5th parenting seminar for this year is The Path to Success, held last September 18, 2021.  Pastor Melita Espanol, teacher and Administrator of JMARS Learning Center in Cavite and pastor of Believers in Christ Church facilitated the seminar.

Pastor Melet said that to be successful is to lay the foundation by believing in God. He should be the center of whatever we will do, especially being a parent. And as God as the greatest foundation we can rely on.

The seminar was attended by 70 participants from 10 partner schools of MMP. To date this is the well-attended parenting seminar conducted by MMP since it started this January.