By Lilibeth Sabado, Columban Lay Missionary In 2009, I spent a couple of months immersing myself in communities in Mindanao where families of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) lived. I felt it was important to understand the lives of those left behind so that I could more effectively accompany and pastorally support the OFWs I
By John Din, JPIC Coordinator, Philippines Connecting with others opens doors to worlds we have yet to imagine. This has been my exact experience over the past few weeks. Here at Santuario de San Columbano, we are surrounded by full-grown native trees that continuously generate seedlings for regenerative tree planting. Yet recently, I began
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future By Arlenne Villahermosa, Columban Lay Missionary The 75th anniversary of the Columban Mission in Negros (1950–2025) commemorates a legacy of “integral evangelization” that has deeply influenced the island’s spiritual, social, and ecological landscape. Celebrating 75 years of presence signifies a transition – from building the local church to
By Marjorie Engcoy, Co-worker As a child, I often found myself gazing at the majestic silhouette of the Mt. Malindang Ranges located on the Zamboanga Peninsula in Mindanao. Rising above the horizon, it evoked a sense of wonder and mystery. I imagined the countless species hidden within its forests, marvelling at its grandeur. More
By Lydio Mangao, Jr. Chile’s Global Ecological Significance Did you know that there are 110 identified ecosystems worldwide, and 88 out of these are found in Chile? This incredible diversity stems from Chile’s unique geography, stretching across Antarctica, South America, and the Pacific. Within its borders lies eight biomes or 15 ecological zones, ranging
By Fr. Elbert Balbastro, Columban Missionary in Pakistan The ongoing war continues to impact many, with rising death tolls in Iran, Lebanon, and other Middle Eastern nations. Oil and commodity prices are increasing, affecting economies worldwide. Displaced populations add to the crisis, facing daily stress and uncertainty. Altogether, the situation creates a complex humanitarian
