The Philippines is an island country of Southeast Asia located in the Pacific Ocean. It is home to more than 80,000,000 people. The Philippines enjoys a tropical climate, but is frequented by monsoons. It is also a country of tropical fruits and vegetation. The Philippines has two official languages, Filipino and English, although there are 100 regional dialects.

High population growth, widespread corruption, social and political unrest, guerrilla wars and several natural disasters have played havoc with the economy, causing widespread poverty and unemployment. Three million live in squalid shanty-town slums. Filipino children are greatly affected by the problems of malnutrition and disease.

The Philippines was a Spanish colony from 1565 to 1898, hence the many Spanish customs. The first democratic government was elected in 1992. There is freedom of religion. The Philippines is Asia's only country with a Catholic majority. Religion is 8% Muslim and 7.5% Protestant. The remainder of the population is Catholic.

Children of Promise in The Philippines

The Children of Promise program in The Philippines, known as Grace Family Helper, is one of our largest. Children are assisted in 13 areas in the greater Manila area. Most live in shanties and lean-to’s or tiny one-room urban dwellings. Grace Family Helper provides tremendous hope through loving care in the areas of food, schooling, health care, and spiritual guidance. The Church of God in The Philippines works hards to meet the needs of the children and their families.

A view of the railroad settlement where many sponsored children live.	The train comes through regularly.
Home for some of our sponsored children.	Getting vaccinated is part of being sponsored.
Having fun at a Children of Promise birthday party!	Praying is an important part of every gathering.