July 22, 2025, 8:18pm MDT
In the lush mountains of Aklan, the busy centre of Tondo and in Bataan classrooms, the humanitarian efforts of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have had a visible impact on education throughout the Philippines.
Indigenous students rising in the mountains of Aklan
On July 8, a team of Latter-day Saint Missionaries, local church leaders, teachers and Philippine Army soldiers trekked across hanging bridges and steep terrain to bring help to the most remote corners of the Philippines.
So, at Maytaro Elementary School, the children of Indigenous Aquinon Bukidnon were delightful recipients of 61 monoblock chairs, 13 folding tables, and boxes filled with textbooks and school supplies.
The effort, led by senior missionaries with support from local church leaders, represents more than material aid. It was the act of Bayanihan, a spirit of joint unity in the Philippines, reported by the Church’s Philippine newsroom.
Lt. Col. Jover Pimentel, head of the 82nd Infantry Battalion, helped escort the team and carry materials. He said, “This journey to Sitio Maytaro was not easy, but seeing the smiles on the children’s faces deserve every step of the way.”
Hope after the fire: helping Tondo family
Just a few weeks ago, another group of late-day saint volunteers gathered in Tondo, Manila, on June 14th to support children and families who had been refuge in the aroma fire, the church’s Philippine newsroom reported.
The Revitalization Initiative, organized in partnership with Upskills+ Foundation Inc., brought uniforms, shoes and supplies to dozens of children in time for the new academic year.
John Michael Duazo of Upskills+ Scholar expressed his gratitude, calling for immediate and practical blessings on the donation, which will ease the financial burden on the family and allow them to concentrate on their studies without the stress of acquiring the necessary materials.”
Upskills+ Welfare Manager Ma. Teresa Salmiento praised the Church’s support, both through fire relief and early humanitarian efforts. “They played an important role during the relief efforts by providing kitchens, food, food packs and bedding. We appreciate all the help we have for our beneficiaries and the dragon people.”
Manila Philippines stake president Stephen Casio added: “Through service and compassion, hope continues to reach those who need it most.”
Wear tools to Bataan school for tomorrow
Back in Bataan, the educators from Orani and Hermosa were beneficiaries of another donation. 287UHD AI Smart TV offers to support digital learning from the church.
Local officials, major teachers from the Ministry of Education and church leaders attended the donation ceremony on May 28, the church’s Philippine newsroom reported.
Jeffrey V. David, Principal II of Orani North Elementary School, said Orani V. David “This donation celebrates many teachers and learners as technology plays an important role in interactive learning.”
