There is a saying in Palawan that most visitors who visit the Island are infected with the “Come Back” syndrome. I’m a witness to this because after my first visit, I not only came back, I came back with my wife to stay, and have lived here for the last 8 years!
The Underground River, one of the 7 wonders of the world; its beautiful beaches; lush forests and breath-taking tropical setting attract visitors from everywhere. The absence of earthquake, typhoons or floods, reasonable cost of living, and the famous Filipino hospitality generally practiced there compel retirees and those yearning for fulfillment through missionary commitment to consider Palawan as a place to pray about.
AWA has had a presence on the Island since 2005 and is in the process of constructing an airstrip to enhance its aviation program. It has also partnered with the local church organization in various ways including air and land transportation of supplies and missionary personnel to hard to reach places.
A Prophecy seminar was held last year at Bataraza, Palawan which led 26 souls to baptism. Pastor Rodolfo T. Bautista, a retiree, Dr. Marvie Ramirez, a practicing Dentist and a number of volunteers had the joy of having a part in it.
Funding that came from AWA-US with local counterpart and God’s blessings made it all happen!
Each evening team members conducted programs for the children, which included songs, Bible stories, and crafts. Following the children’s program health talks were given, which were well received by those coming to the meetings. Then, the speakers at each site would presented Bible studies, which included topics such as Daniel 2 prophecy, the Sabbath, baptism, God’s law, and many more. The average attendance at each site ranged from 80 to 150, including children.
More than 150 people were baptized on the following Sabbath of the evangelism meetings in Narra, Palawan, Philippines. The experience was amazing and life changing for all who were involved—team members from the United States, local church pastors, elders, church members, and the 7 different communities where the meetings were held.
