On October 29 and 31 the municipality of Makilala in North Cotabato was hit by Intensity level 7 earthquakes with magnitude 6.6 and 6.5 respectively on the Richter scale. Batasan, one of it’s towns just at the foot of Mount Apo was hard hit. The Batasan Church building, along with the residences of the church members living around it were so completely demolished that the government would not allow them to return to their homes. The church relocated from Purok (district) 5 to Purok 8 where Don Bosco Foundation for Sustainable Development has generously given them temporary encampment rights up to 5 years. Not too far from there, a piece of land was offered to the church to be paid for on an installment basis. The church bravely accepted and is confidently moving forward by faith. They have seen with their eyes and felt in their hearts the unfailing love of God through those who brought them vital food, supplies and medical care. What an awesome God we serve! If you are led to help Batasan rise from the rubble, you may donate through this site, note Batasan Rebuilding.
December 13. Groundbreaking of new chapel for Batasan Church of Christ (L). Map of baranggays of Makilala (R). Note baranggay of Batasan at the edge of Mt. Apo National Park.
Ongoing construction of new chapel with Bro Herson Amolo, Mindanao relief coordinator, overseeing delivery of building materials.
November 22. Relief goods distribution with Bro Herson and Bro Joel Pang-ot, pastor of Batasan Church (with red towel) being done by the roadside because the government has declared this area a danger zone and has banned access to everyone. “I cried profusely not because of what happened to us (his house was razed to the ground, he saved nothing) but because of the earthquake, I am witnessing how much God loves me and my brethren, seeing and receiving from brothers whom I do not know,” Pastor Joel shared with Bro Herson.
Pastor Joel walking-thru the new building site with children (L) and leading praise and worship services (R) under the tents in relocation site.
December 16. Medical clinic and relief goods distribution conducted by Dr Titus Bantilles and medical mission team with Bro Rasty Sanoy. COC-HELPS delivered precious supplies and donations from several Metro Manila area churches. Thank you and God bless you for all your help.