seeds 2012-2013 - Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center

(Social Enhancement for Empowerment and Development Services)
SEEDS is the official annual news magazine of Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center (MINSAC), Inc.
with editorial and operational office at RVM Compound, 214 N. Domingo Street, 1111 Quezon City, Philippines.
Tel./ Fax: (632) 727-9521 (National Coordinator) / Tel.: (632) 413-8713 (Staff Office) / Website: www.minsac.ph
May 2012 - April 2013 Issue
Volume 11
2 Editorial
Testimonies of Partners
3 A Meaningful Life with
MINSAC
Commitment of a Scholar
4 From a Dream to Success
Ma. Teresa Rabina
5
MINSAC Tulay ng
Kabataan sa Magandang
Kinabukasan
Other Stories
Magnanimity of Heart
6 Unforgettable Experiences
in MINSAC
Challenges in my
Workplace
7 Journey of MIWA
Testimony: Liezel Cagas
8 –9 Caught in Frames
10 Self-Reliant Business
Enterprise: Giving Life
to the Poor
11 e-Skills First Alumni
Reflections
12 Life’s Reflection
Homecoming
13 Crisis Counselling
Approach: A Reflection
14 Where Service and Love
Matters
Recipients of Pondo ni MIDES
15 Donation Form
16 Partner Agencies
MINSAC Centers
Word of Thanks
Seed (sld), n [pl.seeds] 1. Any part from a new
plant will grow; 2. The source, origin, or
beginning of anything; 3. Social Enhancement
for Empowerment and Development, the most
fitting description for MINSAC’s initiatives in the
attainment of its vision of sustainable
communities where people live with dignity.
“Give a person to eat; he/she will live for a day,
give him/her a seed and teach him/her how to
sow it, he/she will live for life.” As an
organization, MINSAC commits itself to
community development by enhancing people’s
potentials and capabilities; active participation
through collective action for change and
transformation; and the promotion of people’s
well-being and welfare.
Chairperson
S. Ma. Ceferina Bodiongan, RVM
Vice-Chairperson
Ms. Juris Soliman
President/Executive Director
S. Ma. Dolores Ferrandiz, RVM
Secretary
S. Ma. Delia Serviño, RVM
Treasurer
S. Ma. Rosalia Nacionales, RVM
Members
Ms. Zenaida Austria
Mr. Alex Flores
Honorary
Rev. Fr. Anton Cecillo Pascual
For copies, comments, and inquiries, please call, send
an email, visit our website, or send a letter addressed
to The Editor, SEEDS-MINSAC, 214 N. Domingo
Street, 1111Quezon City, Philippines.
The views and opinions of contributors do not
necessarily express those of MINSAC or the Religious
of the Virgin Mary (RVM).
2 SEEDS
In these modern times, we are besieged with
worldly concerns that most often than not tend to make
us selfish and unaffected by what is happening around
us. We are too concerned for our own survival to think
of another’s concern. Everybody seems to be in a hurry
to achieve something even when the rest of the world
are grieving, craving and trying to seek for help and
assurance of living.
If you read the newspaper or watch news in
television, you can see that the common factor of this
chaos is the greediness for money, power and selfsatisfaction. Horrendous crimes are committed and
innocent people including children become unwilling
victims. It seems that no one else cares. Nobody is
interested, or just simply ignores the bitter and sorrowful state of things in his surroundings.
But amidst the horror stories we read about the
sorry state of our world, there lays a ray of hope. Hope
that there are still a lot of good people around us, that
the world still cares after all. Stories of genuine selflessness still abound. This issue of SEEDS carries a lot of
life changing experiences and sincere, unpretentious
service. The sacrifices they had to endure in order to
make difference in a world full of greediness and sin,
offers a shining hope that the world is still a better place
to live in.
Who can forget the sacrifices a group of doctor
-friends and members of their medical team made as
they braved all the hardships and dangers they met just
to offer their services to their Aeta brothers and sisters
in Porac, Pampanga? Or the stories of our own
MINSAC scholars, who were able to mend the torn
pieces of their lives and reshaped to become a role
model of the youth? Even patient Nanays shared their
gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord and how their
lives changed through their writings and their heartwarming poems. How can we just ignore the
commitment and the heart for the poor of our Sisters
and MINSAC staff who serve others beyond their own
pains and hurts.
At MINSAC, our hearts are overjoyed every
time we see and read not only stories of success but
most especially the changes that we helped bring out to
their families and in their inner souls. The Spiritual
learning and teachings they unconditionally embraced
are the ones that made our heart swell with pride. We
know that wherever their destiny takes them, the
knowledge and wisdom we shared with them will
forever be in their hearts, mind and soul.
By: Janine N. Razo (MINSAC-Davao Tuloy-Aral)
My mother was instrumental of me to be part of Mother Ignacia
National Social Apostolate Center (MINSAC), being a Pre-school teacher. She
enlisted me in Munting Paaralan Ni Madre Ignacia Del Espirito Santo where
they taught me good values and developed my spiritual life. They continued to
support me throughout my elementary up to my high school education.
For me, being a MINSAC Tuloy-Aral (TA) partner is both a
profession and passion because for fifteen years that I have been in MINSAC, I
was able to boost my abilities and enhance my skills through its different
programs and activities. With a heart to serve, I have been involved in many
community services and environmental works which opened my eyes to the
reality and defined my role as a TA partner. I helped in the feeding program at
Mother Ignacia Learning Center (MILC), participated in the quarterly tree
planting and cleaning activity for the protection and preservation of Malagos watershed. I also took part twice a week in
assisting my mother as a pre-school teacher in her daily lessons and guiding the pupils in all their classroom activities. All of
these sacrifices and endeavors were rewarded when I received my college diploma last Nov. 10, 2012. But of course, I still
continued my community service as I took part in MINSAC relief operation in the recent typhoon areas in Baganga, New
Bataan and Monkayo.
All of these activities, I took as a challenge because I do believe that nothing starts easy. Problems came along the
way but my strong will and determination led me the way to success. The feeling of being a part of MINSAC is so overwhelming especially when hard works are sincerely appreciated.
Truly my whole MINSAC family molded me to become a better person with so much learning to keep like virtue of
charity, hard work, unity, good values, strong faith in God and the values of education in life.
Yes, through life’s ups and downs, I always experienced the love and support from my own family same with my
MINSAC family, S. Ma. Nancy G. Lao, RVM, S. Ma. Mila G, Ortega RVM, my co-TA partners and to our two registered
Social Workers, Ms. Jhoanna Bisnar and Ms. Edlin Tabulong. Above all, the Lord God who gifted me this wonderful life,
for without Him, I could never be the person I am right now.
Allen David B. Muñoz (3rd Year College taking up Bachelor of Science in Accountancy in PUP)
“It is not possible to attain success in life, or to realize your goals, without understanding the
importance of commitment. Commitment is more than just a mental exercise; it is a personal quality,
a trait of sincere and steadfast fixity of purpose, when combined with a clear declaration of intention,
commitment helps bring about a sense of meaningful purpose in your life.” (Anonymous)
In my almost 7-year engagement as a scholar in MINSAC, I learned how to commit myself to
people, whom I know at first, would really help me a lot. Throughout my journey as a high school and
college student, MINSAC imparted me many things that would always remind me to the path of
becoming a good person that God wants me to be. We were helped not only to meet our financial
needs in school, most importantly, they guided us in building our own character. In return, we learned
to commit ourselves in attending weekly sessions, where we talked and shared our own thoughts and
experiences regarding many aspects of life. We also learned to deal with other people when we
attended summer camps, seminars and other group gatherings. We also had the opportunity to enhance our own skills and
talents and most especially, to deepen our relationship with the Lord through Spiritual and Values Formation sessions.
Like me, many are given scholarship opportunities - to study just to pass and have good grades, but having someone
who looks at your growth as a person of good and moral attitude is something even more special. I’m so blessed to be part of
MINSAC where I learned many things and at the same time given the chance to share my pains and triumphs as I travel the
road towards the achievement of my dreams. For it is always true and distinct that learning is not just earned from the four
corners of classroom but also through experiences and listening from other people’s own stories.
The desire to reach our own goals doesn’t stop in doing our best. It goes beyond touching the lives of others and
inspiring them to fully understand the true meaning of life. Next year, as I graduate from school and even as a scholar of
MINSAC, the real application of what has been imparted to me by my family, friends, school and even by the said institution
will be tested. Soon many will change in my life, but still many will remain in my heart and hopefully I can share them to
others and give back to the people who helped me in fulfilling my dreams.
3 SEEDS
By: Jonalyn Dalina (Former Borongan Tuloy-Aral)
Time is running so fast. It’s almost 13 years now that I have been a beneficiary of MINSAC Tuloy-Aral and
Childfund Japan Sponsorship Program. It is really hard to believe that I surpassed all trials that life held me during those
years of struggles. As I wrote this article, tears rolled down my cheeks. Memories became vivid as I recalled all those trials
I suffered in my school life. But, all those heartaches and sacrifices are worth thanking for now as I received my college
diploma. I knew my graduation is not an end but a new beginning of a journey on the ups and downs of life.
I took and successfully passed the December 2012 Nursing Licensure Examination. At that time, I didn’t know
how I felt as I heard and saw my name in the Internet. What a wonderful birthday gift I received from God because the
following day was my birthday. I really appreciated the love of God for He showered this special blessing upon me this
day of my life. When I was a student nurse, I was pleased to share my knowledge I learned in school. And I felt jovial in
imparting new learnings to those who lack it.
I am one of the farmer’s children raised with ambition and determination to achieve a dream in life. I saw my
parents’ hard work in tilling the land and planting rice under the heat of the sun. And in turn, I did my best in school. Now,
I am proud seeing my parents happy and joyful. Our economic situation motivated me to pursue my aspirations. I
considered myself the luckiest person in this world because God gave me MINSAC and CFJ to reach a goal. God made
them instruments to help, support, and guide people in need. And I owed them what and where I am now. Together with
my family, we would like to convey our sincerest gratitude to all of them. Thank you for all the love, care, support,
advices, prayers and trust you have shared us. Thank you for all the learnings you have imparted to me. Thank you also for
helping my parents in moulding my personality to be a better person with strong spiritual values and most specially our
financial concerns.
To my fellow sponsored children, my piece of advice is-Do not stop dreaming but do your best and be hopeful
because God has beautiful plans for those who have faith and trust in His love and mercy. He keeps on sending people with
helping hands and caring hearts if you only believe. Never let poverty be a hindrance to your dreams. Keep on believing
that you can do it. Just let God be the center of your life.
At present, I am working as one of MINSAC staff and was
hired while waiting for the result of the Board Examination. Before, I
was just a sponsored child but now I am one of their staff. I am
grateful for having been given this opportunity to know them better. I
am experiencing now the difficulties the staff are suffering while
handling and facilitating children. However, it is a fulfilment indeed
sharing and loving people whom you do not even know.
To date, I am enjoying in helping my former co-sponsored
children in my own little ways. These opportunities help me earn a
living and add to the income of my parents for our family to live a
decent life. Now, I feel ready to face the new challenges of my life
with humility, respect and fear of God. I will continue to share my
knowledge, caring people in need and serving my community as a
faithful and committed nurse. With these aspirations, I salute
MINSAC and CFJ for a work well done to the poor of GOD!
Ma. Teresa Rabina (2nd Year in Alaska Night High School, Mambaling)
I came from a poor family and when I heard about MINSAC from my mother who is a leader of MAKABAWI
Cooperative, I decided to become a MINSAC partner. I was convinced that the organization is committed of helping
economically challenged people like us. Through MINSAC’s TA service, I was given the chance to continue my studies.
They also taught me to become a better person through the different activities and value formation sessions we were
allowed to participate in.
I learned to value more my studies and I am striving to get good grades because my scholarship means so much to
me and my family. Through MINSAC’s financial assistance, my school needs were met giving my parents a chance
to support my other siblings.
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 4
MINSAC Tulay
ng Kabataan sa
Magandang
Kinabukasan
By: Jenifer M. Horvillosa (TA
Scholar-Camarin)
Simula ng maging TA
partner ako, marami ang naitulong
ng MINSAC sa aking sarili at
maging sa aking mga magulang.
Ang MINSAC ay nakatulong sa
akin upang ako ay makapag-aral sa
kolehiyo. Layunin ng MINSAC na
matulungan ang mga kabataan na
makapag-aral at magkaroon ito ng
magandang kinabukasan. Hindi
lang ang mga kabataan ang
kanilang natutulungan kundi pati
na rin ang mga magulang nito.
Nagbibigay ang MINSAC ng
kaalaman sa mga bagay na
pwedeng pagkakakitaan ng mga
magulang upang sa gayon ay hindi
sila mahirapan sa mga gastusin sa
araw-araw.
Sa pagsali ko sa MINSAC,
marami akong naging karanasan na
hindi ko makakalimutan. Natuto
akong magdasal, magrosaryo at
magpasala mat sa anu mang
biyayang aking natatanggap. Sa
mga aktibidad na aming ginawa,
nagkaroon ako ng mga maraming
kaibigan at nabigyan ako ng
pagkakataon na maipakita kung
sino talaga ako. Hindi ko
makakalimutan ang pagtuturo
namin sa mga bata tuwing summer.
Nagkaroon din ako ng pagkakataon
na maka-bonding ang ibang TA
kagaya ko at natutong humarap sa
aking mga suliranin na may
positibong pananaw. Masaya ako
dahil naging parte ako ng
MINSAC.
Maraming, maraming
salamat po sa MINSAC sa
paghubog ng aking pagkatao at sa
pagkakataong makamit ko ang
aking mga pangarap sa buhay.
MAGNANIMITY OF HEARTS
By S. Maria Apolinaria Tambien, RVM (MINSAC Main Office)
If there is a word or a term to be
addressed to an individual or a group of
individuals who risked the scorching heat of
summer on a long distance travel to a place
unknown by society, the word would be
“magnanimity”’ simply defined as “a
display of noble generosity.” (WEB. DICT.)
I would like to address this word to
a group of committed individuals that
represented one of the biggest colleges of
the Congregation, the St. Mary’s College
(SMC) of Quezon City. The distinguished
group identified themselves as St. Mary’s
College Alumni Foundation, Inc. Their
remarkable work and concern for the poor is
worth the effort of the individual of
magnanimous heart. And the tag label that
spells “Medical Mission Galing Sa Puso ni
Mother Ignacia “made a catch-all that
capsulized our Venerable Ignacia’s heart for
the poor. Oh, how Mother Ignacia must have
mobilized them to action is something to
ponder indeed!
It was last April 21, 2013 (a Sunday
at that!) that the group left their homes, their
Sunday strolling with their families or a day
of rest after a weekday of work, to do
service of love to the native Aetas of Planas,
Porac, Pampanga. The place of concern is
known as Katutubo Village the compound of
which housed more than 200 Aeta families.
These Aetas were gathered after the eruption
of Mt. Pinatubo years ago and now are the
concern of MINSAC.
It took quite a time for the group to
reach the village because they got lost on
their way. One group went as far as Florida
Blanca which is beyond Porac while
another group went another way to Villa
Maria. The delay was compounded when
the Mobile and St. Mary’s bus electrical
wirings’ malfunctioned so that some had to
hike to the Village to catch up with the
Medical Mission operation. But the
“waiting” was worth the effort since the
services rendered were far beyond
expectation. The doctors immediately
reported to the rooms where they were to
work. and for almost two and a half hours
the services were successfully delivered at
its best. 434 of the Aeta population were
treated satisfactorily, thank God. The
Feeding Program was most enjoyed by the
aeta children which were served after they
were given “lessons” covering up with
action songs and some gimmick to which
the kids so happily performed.
However, their noon meals were at
each own opting. Some took their extra
snacks for a lunch, others took it somewhere on their way home and some few
went as far as Clark to buy something for
their lunch. But what really counted most
was their joy at serving the Aetas one way
or the other. Many were awed and amazed
at seeing and touching the cute dark-kinky
haired tots who were the first patients for
dental treatment. In fact, one of the alumnadoctor exclaimed “Ay, ang cute-cute nila!
Ang gaganda nila!” then she took pictures
of the kids.
“All’s well that ends well,” as the
saying goes. The SMC Alumni must have
gone home happy and contended with all
the experiences they must have brought
home and for having served their “brothers
and sisters” aetas of Porac, Pampanga
under the inspiration of Venerable Ignacia
del Espiritu Santo. May your tribe increase
dear SMC Alumni!
SALUTE TO YOU FROM
MINSAC!
5 SEEDS
By: Rose B. Encio (A Tuloy-Aral graduate of MINSAC Llorente)
I am Rose B. Encio, 17 years old, and a resident of Barangay Tungkip, Llorente, Eastern Samar. My mother is
Marilou and my father is Raul C. Encio. I am second among the five (5) children. My siblings are Marvin, Mervin, Rea
and Raul Jr. I once dreamt of becoming a working student to finish my studies and to help my family out of the financial
problems. I want to take the course of Elementary Education so that I can share to other people the things that I will learn
in school.
The different Values Formation activities were my most memorable experiences in MINSAC because the said
sessions allowed me to share and be true to myself and co-scholars. It also made me more approachable to others and
ready to help and reach out to other people. Through Spiritual Formation sessions, my relationship with God deepened as
I learned to acknowledge Him as the source of my strength every day to face all the challenges life has to bring.
Moreover, when I came to know Mother Ignacia, my determination and courage doubled up. She really inspired
me a lot, for she never stopped seeking answers to her many questions in life. Like her, I’d like others to believe that
there is always hope no matter how difficult a situation may be. Problems are given by God as a gift, for us to be strong
and be closer to Him.
S. Maria Gemma Navidad, RVM, S. Maria Lilia Malimit, RVM and the other Sisters who became part of my
life are the ones who pushed and taught me to become strong yet loving and humble person. They also helped me
realize that poverty is not and should not be a hindrance to anybody in achieving his/ her dreams. Most of all, they
imparted me values on how to be a good Christian.
To the wonderful people who became my teachers of becoming a better person, you will always be remembered
with fondness. To all MINSAC workforce, you will always be in my thoughts and prayers that you may continue
building communities of responsible and faithful servants of God.
Challenges in my Workplace
By: Miss Edlin Tabulong, RSW (MINSAC Davao SRBE In-Charge)
Community organizing is a very challenging job. Before, I usually feel uneasy
every time I go to the Barangay Captain, Purok leader or any person in-charge in the
community to ask permission for area mapping. I have this notion that they might just
ignore me or they might not positively respond to my good intentions as a community
organizer. Besides, I am also terrified to face people who are in the higher position.
I had this experience when a Purok leader refused to accompany me during the ocular visit I conducted in
their community. It was difficult because I was there for two days and nobody was available to guide me. I went back
to the Barangay office and ask for another person who can sincerely guide and help me in my search for a community
that needs the MINSAC Programs and Services. I felt a lot of pressure because it was my first time to handle such
situation all by myself. Being alone in conducting survey and in organizing people in the community was very heartrending moment in my life because I had a very low self-esteem then. I always thought I cannot handle and carry out
interview with people or any individual in the household, or much more, organize a group of people. Nevertheless, by
God’s grace and with a lot of self-encouragement I was able to make a start. More pressures and harassments came,
but it did not deter me from doing what I went there for. For two months, meetings and workshops were conducted,
amidst the noise of motorcycles and jeepneys. There was also the noise of an on-going basketball game, because the
venue of our activities is within a Basketball court. I realized soon that handling meetings without a proper venue is
very difficult for us to undertake. Still I pursued with my goal to meet and talked with the people I needed to talk to.
However, these experiences in my journey as a community worker guided me to become an intensed worker
in my world of endeavors. My confidence in facing people was nurtured and empowered. Now I could say that I have
the strength and skill to be with the people. And lastly, I am thankful to my colleagues and to the MINSAC
coordinators and other RVM sisters for the motivation and the guidance that they taught me. They played an
important part in my development as an agent of change. I was inspired with these people around me, helping me in
the improvement of my profession, and in the Spiritual aspect of my life. Thanks to you!!!
6 SEEDS
By: S. Ma. Lilia R. Malimit, RVM (MINSAC-Llorente)
The Mother Ignacia Women Association (MIWA) of Llorente is composed of mothers who are willing to do everything
for the good of their family and the community: The family which they truly believe, is the foundation of community.
These women were organized through MINSAC. Together with their husbands, they are given spiritual and values
formation. They too have advent and Lenten recollection.
For many years of living together outside marriage, having two to six children out of wedlock, ten (10) MIWA members
received the sacrament of matrimony during the mass wedding celebration sponsored by MINSAC on March 24, 2012 in
coordination with St. Anthony Parish and was officiated by Rev. Fr. Marlon Gacho. The B.E.C, pre-Cana seminar, bible sharing,
recollection prepared them to sincerely join together into the sacrament of marriage. By heart, they understood the words “Let no
one separate what God has joined together.” Love is the reason for a man and woman to marry each other. Marriage is a vocation, a
gift from God.
They were so overwhelmed and had to share their experiences after they received the blessings of God through the
sacrament of marriage with their testimonies:
1. Nagkaroon ng kaligayahan, pagmamahalan at pag-uunawaan sa aming pamilya.
2. Mapayapa, magaan ang loob, nagkakaisa at nagpapahalaga sa bawat isa.
3. Merong pagbabago sa ugali: marunong makitungo, hindi na nagmumura, hindi na pilosopo, bawas na ang bisyo; controlled
na kung nagagalit, marunong makiusap na may pagmamahal, hindi na nakikipagtalo at may takot sa Diyos.
4. Makahanap ng lunas sa bawat pagsubok pati nasa pangkabuhayan.
5. Malaki na ang tiwala sa isat-isa.
6. Panatag ang kalooban.
7. Nakapangaral na sa mga anak at sa kapit-bahay.
8. May direction na ang buhay.
9. Masaya ang aming pamilya.
10. Malaki ang pasasalamat sa mga biyayang pinagkaloob sa amin.
Indeed, they are grateful for this meaningful event in their lives of
which they will always cherish in their hearts. Their love takes roots in the
love of Jesus to His bride, the church. The sacrament of matrimony is a
personal and communal encounter in faith with Jesus who comes to us in word and sacrament. The sacrament
they received brings new life, new blessings and new hope. It is a wonderful way of God’s loving and caring for them. Their hearts
are filled with gratitude ministry of the RVM Congregation for reaching out, formed them and made them whole again. The
members of Mother Ignacia Women Association (MIWA) are blessed to be the beneficiaries of the Mother Ignacia Housing Project
of Llorente.
Along with the spiritual blessings that they received came another beautiful opportunity which is good health for their
human body. MIWA members were able to attend training on herbal making.
In partnership with the Local Government Unit of the municipality of Llorente under the leadership of the municipal
Mayor, Hon. Tito “Dindo” Codoy, Jr., these women were trained to become massage therapists. Now, they take care not only the
health of their family but some are already catering home service to other people who needs massage services.
Liezel Cagas
When we are experiencing worst nightmare in life, we have no one to call to but God!
I am Liezel Cagas, 39 years old and a mother of two children with my first husband. When my husband died, I got married again
to Joe Arthur Mendoza.
My family is one of the survivors of typhoon Sendong that hit CDO. Isla de Oro where we used to reside was one of the
areas greatly destroyed by flash floods. Our house, all our properties including ourselves was carried away by the strong current of
water to the sea. Luckily, we were able to grip and take support from the huge floating trunk. That trunk and our fervent prayer to
God saved us from that traumatic incident. We lost everything we have but God in His goodness blessed us with a new home in
Calaanan Resettlement Area from Habitat for Humanity and the effort of the local government of CDO.
MINSAC is one of the Non-Government Organizations that helped rebuild the lives of the survivors. I learned about
MINSAC through the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) group in Calaanan Resettlement area. But even prior to the formation of
BEC in the place, a consultation was already conducted sometime in August to invite all Catholics to actively join and participate
in the activities of the church. Along with the consultation was the orientation and launching of livelihood programs for typhoon
Sendong survivors organized by MINSAC. I never hesitated to join MINSAC because of the organization’s attractive intention of
teaching its members to save and inculcate the value of saving. MINSAC allowed me to borrow money as my start-up capital for a
small business and later on maximized the amount in expanding my ventures. The regular monitoring of staff and trainings
conducted equipped us with additional knowledge and skills on how to manage our business. I really feel blessed because my
business enabled me to augment our family’s income, furnish things for our home and most importantly, made me realize that
indeed God cannot be outdone in generosity. In moments of desolation, He will send people to guide us in order to see hope
amidst life's difficulties. I hope that MINSAC will continue its mission of helping other communities not only to earn income but
develop Christian family values as well.
7 SEEDS
Family and Life Seminar
Values Formation
Makabawi Women’s Consumer’s Cooperative (MWCC) Members
and their Danggit Livelihood
MILC
Pupils’
Morning
Exercise
Water System Project
Advent Recollection
MILC Graduation
PTA Meeting
Tuloy-Aral Sessions
MILC Class Activity
MILC Parents’
Health Activity
People Organization’s
Meeting
Partners’ Annual Gathering
Sasmuan, Pampanga
Gift-giving to
Katutubo children
Brgy. Tatalon, Q.C.
Micro Enterprise
Seminar (Staff)
Small Business
Management
Seminar (Partners)
Brgy. Frisco, Q. C.
Generalate Area Staff
Recollection and Recreation
Sto. Domingo Parish
MILC Graduation
UERM Hospital, Q.C.
Bag Making Seminar
Phil. Association of
Social Workers, Inc.
(PASWI)
Convention
NCSD Annual Assembly
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 9
By: S. Ma. Lolieta Ariza, RVM and Mr. Emie Boy Labadan (SRBE Payatas Staff)
For seven years, the Livelihood Support Program (LSP) of MINSAC Payatas A has made a
difference in the lives of poor families who availed its services. Since then, almost two thousand (2,000)
families had benefited from MINSAC especially in augmenting their family income. Some of them already
graduated from the program because they already have enough capital to run their own businesses, and thus are
able to meet their basic needs.
This fiscal year 2012-2013, three hundred ninety nine (399) families availed of the services of the program
amounting to a total of Php1,981,500.00 loan releases. To sustain their businesses, technical assistance were
extended by the Center such as Small Business Management and Simple Bookkeeping seminars and Skills
training. Monitoring and weekly collection of payments are done regularly to ensure that the money they
borrowed is used for the very purpose. Their children can also avail of the educational assistance through the
Center’s Tuloy-Aral and the e-Skills Programs of the Center. Spiritual Value formation for the children and the
parents is also an important component of the Program making it different from other profit-oriented institutions.
The following is an interview and testimony of a partner of the program:
“Nakilala ko ang MINSAC sa
pamamagitan ni Merlyn Domingo na
nagsabi sa akin na ang MINSAC ay
tumutulong sa mga kababaihan na
gustong magkaroon ng pandagdag
puhunan sa negosyo. Nalaman ko din na
hindi lang pandagdag puhunan ang
pwedeng maitulong ng MINSAC, maari
ring matulungan ang aking anak sa pagaaral kung papasa sa kanilang itinakdang
qualifications. Malaki ang naitulong sa amin ng aking pagiging partner ng
MINSAC dahil nadagdagan ang puhunan ko. Nakapamili ako ng sangkap ng tinapay Asado na aking
ipinaglalako at bukod pa doon, nakabili ako ng baboy na alagaan na kalauna’y naging dahilan ng pagsu-supply ko
sa Mila’s Lechon.
Malaki po ang naitulong ng MINSAC sa akin dahil mababang Service Fund lang ang binabayaran
at ito’y binabalik sa Programa upang lalo pang pag-igihin ang serbisyo nito. Sa pamamagitan din ng aking
pagiging member ng LSP, natulungan ang aking anak sa kanyang pag-aaral. Ang Tuloy-Aral service ng MINSAC
ay nagbigay sa kanya ng pinansyal na tulong para sa pamasahe at iba pang pangangailangan sa kanyang pag-aaral
hanggang siya’y makatapos.
Ang pagbabagong nakita ko sa aking sarili mula ng sumali ako sa MINSAC ay ang aking mas
responsableng pamamalakad at pag-unawa sa aking pamilya. Dahil sa kita ko sa aking negosyo, natulungan ko
ang aking asawa na isang taxi driver na mabigyan ng mas magandang buhay ang aming mga anak. Naibigay
namin ang kanilang mga pangangailangan. Tuloy-tuloy ang aming pag-aalaga ng inahing baboy para sa
kinabukasan ng aming mga anak.
Nagpapasalamat talaga ako at nagkaroon ako ng pagkakataon na maging partner ng MINSAC sa
pamamagitan ng LSP—isang programa na ang layunin ay makatulong sa mga tao na gustong umasenso ang
negosyo upang magkaroon ng mas maayos na kinabukasan ang pamilya. Sa dami ng mga lending institutions,
masasabi ko na ang MINSAC ang may pinaka-magandang programa dahil nakakaunawa sila sa pamumuhay
namin. Tinutulungan nila kami hindi lamang para gumanda ang pinansyal na aspeto ng aming buhay kundi pati na
rin ang pagkakaroon ng mas maayos na pamilya na may magandang ugali, positibo ang pananaw sa buhay at may
takot sa Diyos.
10 SEEDS
By: S. Ma. Lolieta Ariza, RVM
(MINSAC Payatas A Local In-charge)
After eleven (11) years of helping the Out-of-School Youth, the e-Skills Training Center of MINSAC
Payatas A held its Alumni Homecoming at the covered court of Payatas B, a venue most accessible to the
residences of the Alumni being from Montalban, Payatas A and B and other neighboring barangays. The
Center has already produced six hundred ninety six
(696) graduates in the different courses offered in that
span of eleven years. Only sixty four (64) attended the
homecoming. Of those who attended twenty five (25)
are employed, six (6) are self-employed; twenty nine
(29) are not employed while four (4) did not signify.
Although only few responded to the invitation, the
Administration considered the event a success
considering that these partners are informal settlers.
Many of them have been relocated; others are already in
the province of their origin, thus the difficulty of
locating them. Some have already gone abroad to look
for greener pasture.
The Administration still continue to keep in touch with the others. We saw how their lives changed. The
once “canto boys” have changed their outlook in life—groomed and more mature persons. Others brought along
their children. By the looks and the behavior of their kids, we observed that they are good parents to them.
These, they attributed to how MINSAC molded them to become suitable and respectable parents.
The event started with a Thanksgiving Mass officiated by Rev. Father Edprim Gasa, CM. During the
event, the program of activities first did not turn out as expected as the speaker from TESDA and other invited
resource persons did not arrive in the morning. However the Alumni saved the day and the affair turned out to
be a more fruitful and meaningful event. After the doxology, the participants took turns in sharing their exploits
in life and the secret of their success. They were just too enthusiastic to share. A representative of Chee Puck,
one of our partners for the OJT of the students and the part time instructors came also and shared to the alumni
some tips on employability. Sister Ma. Dolores Ferrandiz, RVM, Sister Ma. Apolinaria Tambien and Miss
Jeanet Bagares also graced the occasion. Sister Dolores inducted the officers of the Alumni Association. The
Alumni of the different courses pledged support to the e-Skills Center in any way they can. Each group planned.
MINSAC does not leave a stone unturned. It continually looks for opportunities to help the less
fortunate ones. Manpower agencies were invited to join the Job Fair and help the jobless alumni. Two (2)
agencies responded to our invitation – the MYWILL Manpower Agency and Job on Link Agency.
The occasion was completed with the picture taking for souvenirs. Somehow, even if the graduates of
MINSAC were already on their own, the community still kept in touch with them. MINSAC still care for them.
How satisfying it is to know that those whose lives we have touched are doing well in life. Go, go, go MINSAC
go! Grow and Glow!
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 11
Life’s Reflection
By: Jhoanna Bisnar, RSW (MINSAC Davao Education In-Charge)
“I had no shoes and complained, until I met a man who had no feet.” (Anonymous). These words sunk
deep in my heart as I recall the kind of life I had years before when I was merely a lost soul with no destination
to look forward to. It was a life full of grudges and resentments that made me become a “monster” that craves
for all the luxuries and extra comfortable life to conceal all the scars that had enveloped in me. In particular, I
learned to indulge myself into things and activities that teenagers must not get involved with. But despite all the
havoc in my life, God has always been there. He led me to the people who would help find myself. I sought His
guidance and He gladly responded. That was the beginning of my endless journey with MINSAC.
At first, I was a bit doubtful on how I could possibly become a good example to these young people that
the Ministry is serving. Growing up in a densely populated area where poverty reigns, most of them were
neglected by their parents who prioritized work rather than the family to earn a living. These young people
indeed lacked the attention and care of their parents that made them vulnerable to the hazards of life and
therefore needed guidance so as not to lose their identity as human. But, the best things in life aren’t free, so
they have to live life the hard way. A bagful of sufferings and patience were their only mechanism to
emancipate themselves from the bondage of poverty.
It was a great challenge and responsibility to help keep them on the right track. And as I journeyed with
these Tuloy-Aral partners, we partook of each other’s experiences in life. Through the value formation sessions
we have taken which aimed to awaken their sense of self-actualization as dignified human beings, we as
facilitators also learned to become more understanding and uncritical of their life situations. That behind their
childlike simplicity and candidness is a thirst for knowledge and passion to reach their dreams and goals in life
and somehow uphold the kind of living that they have. Beyond the laughter and giggles when something funny
is discussed, there was this painful reality of life that they have to walk quite a distance to be able to reach
school, to save their money so that they could save for their school requirements and other school expenses.
Other than that, they have responsibilities to their families. They too, have to work hard to earn for their everyday necessities. And they never complained because they believe that God was always there to provide them His
blessings. This kind of attitude I do not have before because I was raised and provided with everything a parent
can give to his child.
That was one valuable lesson God taught me, to be always thankful for all the blessings He had
bestowed upon me, for there are people who might have the least in life but instead of complaining, they
accepted it wholeheartedly. But there are some who often disregarded what was given them but somehow in
other ways tend to show efforts that they are worthy of the things
they have.
For that, I was more inspired and motivated to become one
of the MINSAC’s instruments in fulfilling its vision-mission. To
recognize one’s own worth is the greatest surprise in one’s life and
it could only be achieved if you use it enthusiastically, spending it
on something that is meaningful. This is a life inspired by Christ
and guided by Him.
Indeed life is about committing mistakes and learning from
it. I have my own irrepressible errors and even uncountable ones in
the past. But that was past. MINSAC’s spiritual values formation
and self-development sessions made me realized that we are just
human after all and we must hold ourselves responsible for everything we committed. We complain of little things we do not have
but we sometimes fail to see what we possess and that could be a
real answer to our questions in life. But our God is a loving God
that even though we sometimes have our downfalls, He never fails
to give us His graces so that we can move on with our life and makes the most out of it.
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 12
Crisis Counseling Approach:
A Reflection
By: S. Maria Mila Ortega, RVM (MINSAC Davao Provincial Coordinator)
Erich Lindemann and Gerald Caplan are considered the two of the most prominent pioneers in the
field of crisis counseling. Lindemann helps professionally to recognize normal grief due to loss and the
stages that individuals go through in resolving grief. Caplan expanded Lindemann’s concept to the total field
of traumatic events. He viewed crisis as a state resulting from impediments to life’s goals that are situational
and developmental.
Loss is an inevitable part of life. Healthy people grow and move on, leave some things behind,
whether intentionally, by accident or because of growth. In leaving, there may be grieving which is a natural
reaction to loss.
Crisis counseling approach is important nowadays since we are bombarded with natural and
man-made calamities. One has to face such realities in this modern world of technology where people are
eaten by so much materialism and consumerism, which never displays emotions or that we control our
emotion because we are greatly influenced by western world of self- absorption and narcissism. We are
more
preoccupied by the world of pleasure and security that we forget the need to be with our brothers
and sisters in need of love, affection and understanding.
Just like this recent typhoon Bopha, that hit Mindanao. How did the victims survive or how are they coping
up with this kind of loss and grieving? Stories of hurts, pains and loss were related, even fears and traumas
manifested on their faked smile as they get their share of food and help from concerned citizens. Seeing
them on the television is a lot different as when you go to the devastated areas, actually meeting them and
listening to their stories of survival and hope. Being a social worker in the province, I had the privileged to
get to know this people. Though of course we had done it before in Typhoon Ondoy in Manila, and Sendong
in Cagayan and Iligan, but I think typhoon Bopha which hit Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley was the
worst scene of destruction I’ve ever met. The whole area was destroyed, their crops, houses, schools and
even loved ones were lost, and will never come to life or come back to its original structures or designs!
Mostly people commented, “If there’s a full rehabilitation of these areas, it will take many years because
trees were uprooted and land formation were deformed and was totally lost from the face of the earth! “I was
sad, because of the way things were happening, even greatly sad because innocent people were always the
victims of the greediness of the elite and the rich who only think of their fame and riches. Who else then
could be responsible of this unthinkable super typhoon Bopha had done to our place? How could we blame
others when in some circumstances we too can also be answerable for these horrible events and has to
reflect on its bad effects to our environment? Yes, we lost our path of righteousness to ways of indifference
or “kanya-kanya values’. I asked myself, where did it go wrong? As a religious institution, what’s my real
contribution in my witnessing to the values and charisma of our Foundress in her humble servant hood
especially to the poor and marginalized? I do realize that innocent people suffered a lot from others’
selfishness! But we could ease their pain if we get involved in their fight for justice through our own little
ways. My presence to educate them in whatever important life–promoting values has to be instilled in their
way of living. The value formation we integrate during their livelihood seminar/ workshop has to be
intensified. In this way we could strengthen their faith, and will be able to find God’s real presence in their
own lives. Thus, whatever crisis comes,it will not be so hard to face, for God is always with us in our
struggles and difficulties. The GOD who is present HERE and NOW, compassionate and generous in
his mercy, has come to save us! For whatever tangible help we could share be it material, emotional or
spiritual then, in our concerted effort, will not be wasted to nothingness.
Reference:
Gladding, Samuel T.; Counselling: A Comprehensive Profession 5th Edition
Crisis Counselling Approaches pages 235-238
13 SEEDS
WHERE LOVE AND SERVICE MATTERS
By: S. Maria Apolinaria Tambien, RVM
MINSAC-Main Office
Our world today has capsulized success and achievement in the accomplishment of high performance and
multi-facit goals made possible through modern technologies alongside with systematic guidelines. But that was
not so in the beginning when our Lord Jesus Christ walked this earth and gave his own parlay of successes and
achievements. Love and service were all that matters and the rest of projects would follow. And this is the mark of
a MINSAC ministerial task we look forward to in order to spell success and achievement. Our guideline is to be a
missionary first right in our homes and in our community where work still needs to be done. This is the big
challenge for us not to be taken for granted. “Service (ministry) is the path to real significance. It is through
ministry that we discover the meaning of our lives.” Rom. 2:8.
This is especially true in our day and age when materialism and consumerism have made such inroads in
people’s lives where love and service often put aside. They made people care less and less for others and more and
more for themselves. It is in such a milieu that as workers of MINSAC we are missionaries and proclaimers of
good news of love and service. And in order to be effective ministers, we must not only go out “to serve and not to
be served,” as our Lord Jesus did, but also to follow a simple lifestyle of love and serve for people to look forward
to as models. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, in happy memory, firmly believed that “love without action (service)
would not relieve the suffering poor.” In one occasion, she said, “It is not how much we do (again service) but
how much love we put in doing,“ that counts. Simply said, we are to do our task of love and service if we are to
“enhance the dignity of our Filipino people,” MINSAC Vision. So, there is the challenge, go with love and
service your shield and God will be your guide!
Romeo Conti
(medicine for his
high blood)
Jean Lagarto
(surgery for the
removal of infected
Gose-tex wrap)
Mr. John Anilao
(crutches)
Mr. Jose Baliuag
(medical assistance for
his high blood)
Alfredo Lagura
(assistance for his Chest
X-ray, he was diagnosed
of PTB3)
Vien Vong
(medical assistance
for his wife)
Other Assistance:
 Burial Assistance
 Balik-Probinsya Transportation
Assistance
 Typhoon Survivors’ Assistance
Mr. Rodrigo Corbita
(food for his 3-day travel to Agusan
del Sur)
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 14
To all our readers and benefactors:
Peace of Christ!
We believe that the most degrading experience in a person’s life is to be deprived of one’s dignity. We
know there are thousands upon thousands of our people who, because of dire poverty, do not and cannot live the
life of dignity that they truly deserve. The stories that you have read in this issue of SEEDS offer a glimpse of
MINSAC’s committed service to these people.
But MINSAC - no matter how much it desires to reach as many of the poor as it can - is constrained by
limited financial resources. Therefore, MINSAC needs your help in accomplishing its mission of “building
communities, harnessing full potentials, creating just social structures and systems, and fostering harmony in
diversity.”
The assistance that you extend to MINSAC will help to empower the poor, give them opportunities for
development and make decisions for their lives. It will also help them find decent jobs. Your help will allow them
to keep their dignity as persons and as children of God - made in His own image and likeness.
Should you desire to help, please send your donations to MINSAC at 214 N. Domingo St., Quezon City.
May your generosity contribute greatly to the realization of our Foundress Venerable Ignacia del Espiritu
Santo’s dream of raising the dignity of the poor - the poor whom she had served throughout her life; the poor
whom she had asked us RVMs for whom Jesus said that he had been sent and with him He identified.
I want to share as partner of Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center (MINSAC), Inc. for:

EDUCATION PROGRAM
(for Out-of-School-Youth and children)
Tuloy-Aral
Early Childhood Development
Technical/Vocational Courses
(e-Skills)
 FAMILY AND LIFE
 ADVOCACY PROGRAM

LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT PROGRAM (for women)
Small-scale business
Cooperative / People’s Organization
Sub-Contracting Project

Other Services
Disaster Risk Reduction Management
Health
in the amount of: ______________________________________________________.
Every:
Payment Scheme:
Month
Trimester Semester Year
Single Donation
Cash Postal Money Order
Bank Check payable to: Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center
Account No. (Peso) 682-100329-4 BPI Family Bank
or in the form of school/office supplies and equipment, as partner of MINSAC
Name: ___________________________________________ Birthday: __________________________
Address: __________________________________________ Email Address: ____________________
Website: _______________________ Tel. Number/s: ______________ Mobile Number : ___________
Fax Number: ___________________ Signature: _________________ Date: _____________________
Please return by mail, fax or personal delivery to:
Mother Ignacia National Social Apostolate Center
RVM Compound, 214 N. Domingo St., 1111 Quezon City, Philippines
Thank you and God bless!
MAY 2012 - APRIL 2013 15
Assisi Development Foundation, Inc. (ADFI)
Caritas Manila, Inc.
Congregation of the Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM)
Cristina Howell Hugh Yao Medical and Educational Support (CHHYMES) Foundation, Inc.
Childfund Japan (CFJ)
Department of Science and Technology (DOST)
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)
Educational Research and Development Assistance (ERDA)
Edmonton Catholic Charities (ECC) of Canada
Lamoiyan Corporation, Paraňaque City
Llorente, Eastern Samar, Local Government Unit
National Council of Social Development (NCSD) Foundation
Philippine Council for NGO Certification (PCNC)
Saint Mary’s College Alumni Foundation, Inc.
Shoe Mart (SM)
Social Services Development Department (SSDD), Quezon City
St. Joseph’s Home (SJH)
Technical Education Skills and Development Authority (TESDA), Quezon City
The Mena Foundation
Xavier School, Greenhills, Manila
MINSAC Generalate Area
 Rosal St., Payatas A, Quezon City
 Grp. 13, Payatas B, Quezon City
 Camarin, Caloocan
 Planas, Porac, Pampanga
MINSAC Visayas
 Barangay 1, Llorente, Eastern Samar
 Calingatngan, Borongan, Eastern
Samar
 Cebu City
MINSAC Northern Mindanao
 Seriňa St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro
City
 Talakag, Bukidnon
MINSAC Southern Mindanao
 Manga St., Juna Subd, Matina, Davao
City
MINSAC would like to thank all our Partner Agencies, Benefactors, Donors, Friends, our
Partners-in-development work, and the RVM Congregation who in one way or another have generously
and gratefully shared their blessings to help us realize our Programs and Services for the neglected and
less fortunate.
May we continue to share God’s loving embrace to all humanity.