January brought many new changes!

There's so much to catch up on! January really flew by and our little ministry has expanded. The first major change was the Sewing Center. The expansion of the sewing training center is a reality! It's been a long week of cleaning and moving as the Sewing Center is relocated to a much larger space in the building we rent. The sewing machines are being repaired, new shelving built, and plans underway to start the new class with 25 students on February 10. The new room is 1,850 sq. feet, with areas for machines, cutting tables, a lecture/classroom and office.
We traveled to Iba, capitol city of the Zambales province, to meet with officials of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) last week. We have started the process of being recognized by TESDA, and they will administer competency exams to all of our graduates. A TESDA certificate is highly valued for those seeking employment here and abroad.
The grant from Rotary International (Oakhurst Sierra , Oakhurst Sunrise, District 5220 and Subic Bay Freeport Zone), and our collaboration with Malampaya Foundation and PACTEC has been a blessing. Because of their help, we will be able to train 125 men and women this year and equip them to get jobs, plus train many more in the jail! Maraming salamat to all that helped make this happen!
The new space-

before move

Emy and Leslie cleaning windows

Joel from PACTEC doing maintenance on the machines

Cindy and Emy sorting fabrics that will need to be stored on shelves

Joel and Greg moving machines into place

More ministry news:
 BULANGHAGI- Connie and Tina have begun the new bible study in the Bulanghagi tribal community. It's up on the mountainside near Connie's place and the neighbors have been asking her to start a bible study there. Please keep them covered in prayer as they step out to do this new ministry.

UPPER ROOM- The music classes resume on Saturday at 2 p.m. with Sonny teaching bass, Anthony and John Rick teaching guitar. Then the Upper Room Youth Group, led by Anthony, begins at 4 p.m.  English classes are now being led on Fridays by two American friends who also teach at Brent International School.


LIGHTSTRIKE- Training for the LightStrike teams will be held early this month and the first four LightStrikes will be held in March and April. This solar light project will impact hundreds of people and help communities. The Rotary International grant will fund the eight LightStrikes plus equip eight barangays to carry on the work!

Next blog: Big changes at Matain and 12th St!