THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Students in grades 7-9, together with teachers from the primary and secondary education departments of Sarasit Phithayalai School, in the Ban Pong district in the Ratchaburi Province of Thailand, participated in a summer camp where they learned about environmental responsibility. This included an excursion to Ban Mai Chai Len, Khlong Khon in the Samut Songkhram Province.

A Salesian explained, “During the camp, themed ‘Green Minds, Bright Futures’, the students took part in numerous activities. The highlight of the event had students planting mangrove trees. The area is located at the confluence of the Mae Klong River and the Gulf of Siam, making it rich in aquatic life and an important nursery for wildlife. Planting mangroves helps to expand habitats and food sources, contributing to a more abundant and sustainable ecosystem.”

The Salesian added, “Mangroves are of great importance to the ecology, environment, society and economy of many countries. Involving the students in this activity is making them aware of their duty to take care of the earth and the environment.”

Salesian organizations in Thailand and around the globe are focused on environmentally friendly activities and education. Part of this was driven by Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give youth who are poor and disadvantaged an opportunity for a brighter future. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Thailand – ‘Green minds, bright futures’: Sarasit Phithayalai School students take care of our common home

Salesian Missions – Thailand

World Bank – Thailand

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Youth Center in Kalay, Myanmar*, was able to update and expand classrooms to create more spaces for education. The funding came from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Salesians were able to add five classrooms, which will enable them to admit more students.

Kalay is located at the gate to the northern Chin State and is one of the business border towns adjacent to India. In 2021, the military took over the town, destroying everything. Salesians report that fighting happens on the outskirts of town, houses are burned down, roads are blocked and youth run away from the town for their safety. Life has become more difficult with people living well below the poverty line. With the economy down, many people are engaged in smuggling goods or enter early marriages without hope for the future.

A Salesian reported, “Don Bosco Youth Center is the only boarding school for youth. Many come seek our care for education and spiritual growth. The expansion of these classrooms allows us to serve many more vulnerable and at-risk youth who have little opportunity for education.”

A resident in the community, Ko Khai No, explained, “I know many youth who are taking classes at the center. Don Bosco, with its preventive system, brings positive changes for youth and their families. I am quite impressed and grateful for the Salesians for all they are doing in our community.”

Despite the challenges in the country, Salesian missionaries continue supporting people who are the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives after the earthquake.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco schools in Cambodia are actively promoting ecological awareness and sustainable practices through education, pastoral care and community involvement. Two schools, Don Bosco Kep and Don Bosco Sihanoukville, have developed a range of initiatives that integrate care for creation into daily school life.

A Salesian explained, “Through reforestation activities, environmental education programs and the protection of coastal ecosystems, students are encouraged to see ecology as an essential dimension of their human and Christian formation.”

Some of the most important projects are tree planting, the development of green areas and the restoration of mangroves along the coast. These initiatives are coordinated within the framework of the Don Bosco Green Alliance Cambodia, which brings together educational institutions, local communities and youth around a shared commitment to integral ecology.

Indigenous youth are also involved in these efforts, with initiatives such as the Namuncurá Short Film Festival offering platforms to express ecological concerns through storytelling, culture and creative media.

Father Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry, has encouraged Salesian schools to take inspiration from the UNESCO Green School Quality Standard, which provides a quality standard for greening schools and other learning environments. In Cambodia, these principles are being gradually incorporated into educational practice, showing how ecological education can be integrated into academic programs, vocational training and pastoral life.

The Salesian noted, “Through these concrete actions, Don Bosco schools in Cambodia continue to embody the Salesian commitment to care for our common home while supporting youth to become responsible citizens and showing ecological responsibility within their communities.”

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Cambodia

ANS – Cambodia – Don Bosco schools pioneer Ecological Action ahead of worldwide campaign

Don Bosco Kep

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are responding with humanitarian aid after recent clashes in Cambodia. Salesians and students have been impacted. Don Bosco School in Poipet closed on Dec. 9 as fighting along the Cambodia–Thailand border escalated. The closure came amid one of the most serious flare ups in recent years, with heavy clashes displacing thousands of civilians on both sides. The school remains closed.

According to Cambodian authorities, border provinces such as Banteay Meanchey and Oddar Meanchey have seen large scale evacuations, with families fleeing artillery fire and aerial strikes. According to current estimates, nearly 500,000 people have been displaced across the country. While some families remain close to the border, others have moved deeper inland in search of security and assistance. The strain on host communities and local infrastructure is evident, with rising food prices, limited water supplies and growing health concerns adding to the hardship.

A Salesian team met families of students and staff affected by the violence. Many people have been living for weeks in makeshift shelters, government school buildings, or overcrowded camps after abandoning their homes near the border. Their displacement has disrupted education, livelihoods, and access to basic services.

During the visit, the team distributed food, basic household supplies, hygiene materials and small treats for the children. The gesture aimed to offer immediate relief while also providing reassurance and emotional support to families facing uncertainty and loss.

Conditions in several camps remain challenging. Families reported limited access to safe drinking water, often forcing them to purchase water at a high cost. Safety concerns, including snakes entering shelters at night, have heightened fear, particularly among children and the elderly. Health risks linked to poor sanitation, overcrowding and restricted access to medical care were also observed.

A Salesian said, “Don Bosco Cambodia is appealing to the international community, partner organizations and benefactors to assist families of displaced students — especially those now living in temporary camps or without stable housing. Support is urgently needed for food, shelter, transportation, school materials and psychosocial assistance.”

The Salesian added, “The Salesian community also renews its call for peace, urging all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians, especially children, and to pursue dialogue to end the violence. Don Bosco Cambodia emphasizes that education, safety and human dignity must remain above conflict.”

Salesians in other regions of Cambodia began to mobilize support as well. Salesian houses in Phnom Penh, Kep, Sihanoukville, Battambang, and Poipet have begun raising funds to provide food, shelter, and essential support to displaced students and their relatives. Local Don Bosco institutions are preparing contingency plans to assist learners whose schooling may be disrupted by the crisis, ensuring access to meals, transportation and pastoral care.

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Cambodia – Don Bosco Poipet Closed as Border Conflict Displaces Thousands

ANS – Cambodia – Airstrike near Poipet heightens civilian hardship; Salesians mobilize Support

ANS – Cambodia: Don Bosco visits Families Displaced by Border Conflict in Siem Reap and Uddor Meanchey

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries were able to buy a tractor for the Nazareth Boarding House, located in Anisakan, Myanmar*, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The donation is impacting 170 boys who are boarding there, 20 people who work on the farm and 15 staff working at the house.

Anisakan is an agricultural village, and farmers are facing many challenges. Transportation costs are also soaring, and the changing climate negatively impacts farmers in the region. With many parts of the country facing civil war, crops grown on the farms cannot be sent nor sold to other areas.

The Salesians have a farm of 12 acres where they grow different types of vegetables. Previously, they had to hire a tractor to work in the fields. The cost is high and at times they could not access one when they needed it. As a result, they were late for harvesting the crops. By having a tractor, Salesians will save money and can plow whenever they want, helping the farm to be more productive.

Father Simon Louise explained, “Now that I have a tractor, I am really excited to use it to get more farm products. We can also rent our tractor to other to get some income. I will train three young boys, who are Nazareth past pupils, to drive the tractor and we can work on our farm. We are grateful for the donation.”

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have run the Don Bosco Youth Center in Mandalay, the second largest city in Myanmar*, since 2014. The city has been crushed for years by the weight of civil war and most recently a devastating earthquake that continues to impact millions of people. Many youth have been left orphaned or without a family, living on the streets without anyone to protect them.

The Don Bosco Youth Center provides support for 60 youth from difficult backgrounds, including youth from single-parent families and orphans. Most of the youth attend a local school and depend entirely on the Salesian community for their daily needs. The center is run by four Salesian priests, two cooks and a volunteer.

Before the March 2025 earthquake, the center had organized short vocational training courses in electrical wiring, computer skills and motorbike repair. When the earthquake severely damaged the buildings, Salesians were forced to suspend classes.

Although the Myanmar Mary Help of Christians Vice-Province offers regular financial support, missionaries continue to struggle with rising costs for health care and education. Because of the financial difficulties in which they live, Salesians in Mandalay have asked for help to continue food support for 60 youth between the ages of 8-18.

“This support is a valuable help for our mission. It allows these children to continue to grow up in safety, dignity and with hope,” said Father Zeya Aung, a Salesian missionary who wrote to the Salesian Mission Office in Turin, Italy, explaining the situation.

Despite the challenges, Salesian missionaries continue supporting the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives after the earthquake.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – Nourishment, security and an educational journey: the three objectives of the ‘Missioni Don Bosco’ project for the Mandalay youth centre

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

The post MYANMAR: Don Bosco Youth Center supports vulnerable youth first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

Salesians deliver thousands of pounds of supplies

(MissionNewswire) In response to the magnitude 6.9 earthquake that struck Northern Cebu, Philippines, on Sept. 30, Salesian missionaries with the Don Bosco Philippines-South Province launched a relief and donation drive to assist thousands of affected families.

The powerful earthquake claimed 72 lives, injured more than 1,000 people and displaced over 190,000 families. Homes, schools and churches sustained extensive damage, leaving communities in urgent need of help. Many Salesians, living in the communities in which they work, were on the front lines offering support and relief.

A Salesian explained, “With the support of lay mission partners, youth, volunteers, donors and benefactors, the province prepared and delivered hundreds of sacks of rice, food packs and relief goods. A team of twelve traveled to five parishes in Northern Cebu to distribute aid and extend financial assistance.”

The operation was coordinated through the Don Bosco Disaster Intervention, Response and Emergency Coordinating Team with the Commission on Mission Office in Punta Princesa Cebu serving as the central hub. The province continues to accept donations to sustain its ongoing relief operations.

Father Amelito Racelis, provincial superior, shared this message: “May God keep our team safe and reward all the generous people who sent their donations through us in cash or in kind. May the Good Lord have mercy on His people and continue to send help to the victims and all those affected and displaced by this disaster.”

As Salesian missionaries continue to provide support, the goal is to continue to focus on those most in need. And, Salesians wish to remind readers that even in the darkest of times, charity and hope can rebuild lives.

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – The Philippines – Don Bosco FIS Brings Hope to Earthquake Victims in Northern Cebu

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries, sisters and collaborators provided much-needed aid and support to 1,600 displaced families in Min Kun, Myanmar*. The families, who were forced to flee their homes due to ongoing conflict, received not only essential supplies but also spiritual encouragement and emotional support during this challenging time.

The team, led by Father Don Bosco Nyi Nyi, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar, distributed rice, onions, cooking oil, dried fish and eggs. Special attention was given to vulnerable groups. Elderly individuals received multivitamins to support their health, while children under the age of 3 were given toys to bring them moments of joy amidst hardship. In addition, the Salesians allocated funds for medicines and for general camp expenses, ensuring that the families could maintain basic living conditions.

A Salesian noted, “The Salesian mission in Min Kun stands as a testament to the power of compassion and collective effort in addressing the suffering of displaced communities. Through their actions, Salesians continue to embody their commitment to serving those in need, bringing light and hope to even the darkest circumstances.”

This humanitarian effort was made possible with the support of the Salesian Mission Office in Spain, whose contributions helped bring relief to the affected families. The displaced community expressed heartfelt gratitude for the assistance.

Months after the devastating 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar, the emergency continues to impact people’s daily lives as they face destruction, poverty and insecurity. Salesian missionaries continue supporting the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – Salesians bring Hope and Aid to 1,600 displaced families

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries living and working in Thailand responded quickly as violence erupted along the Thai-Cambodian border in late July, forcing nearly 200,000 people to flee their homes. After the July 28 ceasefire, communities on both sides of the border face a daunting recovery in their lives and livelihoods, as well as the education and health of children and families.

In response, the Salesian Family of Thailand rallied to offer relief. Guided by Father Matthew Kitichai Saisawang, delegate for Salesian Youth Ministry, and supported by Father Noppadon Joseph, Salesian seminarians, and lay members, the group launched a donation drive for needed essentials.

On Aug.2, the group partnered with the Sisters of St. Paul de Chartres and the Diocese of Ubon Ratchathani to deliver food, hygiene items and encouragement to displaced people in Srisaket Province. Their mission was to ease suffering and inspire hope.

Across the border in Poipet, Cambodia, the Salesian community at Don Bosco School, under the care of Father Michael Gaikwad, reached out to their own students and families, many of whom were affected by the uncertainty and fear generated by the conflict. Their visits offered comfort and reassurance, letting youth and parents know they were not alone in these trying times.

A Salesian explained, “The Salesian response, marked by swift action and heartfelt presence, stands as a testament to Don Bosco’s legacy of compassionate service. As border communities begin the long path toward healing, the Salesian Family remains at their side — offering not just material support, but also the gift of hope.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Thailand – Don Bosco’s Children Bring Aid and Hope to War Refugees

Salesian Missions – Thailand

World Bank – Thailand

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Months after the devastating 7.7 earthquake that struck Myanmar*, the emergency continues to impact people’s daily lives as they face destruction, poverty and insecurity. Salesian missionaries continue supporting the most vulnerable, and efforts have expanded to the creation of a long-term global aid plan to help people rebuild their lives.

“The population was already suffering from the political crisis, and now they face even more pain because of this natural catastrophe,’ said Father Don Bosco Nyi Nyi, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar. “The earthquake destroyed houses, schools, churches and health centers. Many displaced families had fled the armed clashes and were living in makeshift shelters, which also collapsed. Today, they continue to sleep on the ground, under plastic tarpaulins, in unhealthy conditions, while the rains make the situation worse.”

In Min Gun, a town about an hour’s drive from Sagaing, there are about 1,200 families living in a large camp, with each family living in a four-square meter hut. They came to this camp from seven villages because of the earthquake and political instability. Salesian missionaries have initiated a structured aid plan that focuses on education, nutrition, childcare, health and food assistance.

Fr. Nyi Nyi added that despite the many difficulties faced, the local community shows admirable courage. Volunteers, religious groups and aid workers do their utmost to assist everyone, even if the needs exceed the available resources.

Salesian missionaries indicated, “What the population needs now is long-term help. They need housing, clean water and sanitation. Children need to go back to school and teachers need support to resume teaching. Those who have lost their farms or small businesses need help to start again. Hospitals and clinics were already scarce in the worst affected areas and are now overcrowded or dilapidated. People with chronic injuries or illnesses suffer in silence. Many families have experienced war, displacement and now an earthquake. Their pain is deep.”

In response to the need, the Salesian Mission Office in Madrid has launched a new appeal to help people rebuild their lives, while Salesians across the globe continue to send relief to the country.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – After the earthquake, Salesian missionaries strengthen their commitment to the neediest people

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries continue to respond after a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay, Myanmar*, on March 28. The earthquake caused more than 3,600 deaths and injured more than 400,000 people. There was severe damage in many towns and villages in the Mandalay and Sagaing regions. Buildings collapsed, roads were damaged and families were forced to flee their homes.

A Salesian explained, “Many families are still sleeping in the open, under plastic sheeting or makeshift tents. The rainy season has begun, making life even more difficult. The ground is muddy and the shelters are wet and unsafe. The drinking water is dirty and there are not enough toilets or clean places to cook. These conditions cause illness, especially for children and the elderly.”

He continued, “People are tired and frightened. Many are still in shock from the earthquake. Children can no longer go to school because many schools have been damaged or destroyed. Teachers have no teaching materials and students have lost their books. Parents do not know how to give their children a better future. Hospitals and clinics are already scarce in these areas, and are now overcrowded or inefficient. People with chronic injuries suffer in silence.”

Local volunteers, religious groups and aid workers are doing their best to help, and are sharing food, water, clothes and medicine. They have built temporary shelters and visit the sick. Many areas, however, are still difficult to reach because of the conflict in the country and road conditions.

“We ask all our supporters to stand by the most vulnerable people,” Father Don Bosco Nyi Nyi, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar, wrote in a letter. “Even a small gesture of kindness can bring light to a family living in darkness. Together we can bring hope, healing and new life to the people of Mandalay and Sagaing.”

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Photo courtesy of Missioni Don Bosco

ANS – Myanmar – Courage amid the rubble

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) A delegation of Catholic priests and others from religious groups from across Myanmar* traveled to Min Kun, a village located in the hilly Moemeik area of Sagaing region, to bring vital aid to those impacted by the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay on March 28. The initiative was led by members of the Mandalay Catholic Mission and Salesian Congregation, together with sisters and lay volunteers from various communities.

The aim was not only to provide material support, but also to offer emotional comfort to families devastated by this natural disaster. More than 4,000 people were provided food and everyday goods to help alleviate the immediate difficulties.

The Salesian Congregation contributed 600 sacks of rice and basic foodstuffs. Other religious groups contributed soap, vegetables, spices, insect repellent and personal hygiene items. These products are indispensable, especially in temporary shelters and in crisis conditions.

Mission members also spent time with local residents, offering words of encouragement and  listening to their stories. This pastoral presence was an equally important part of the mission, underlining the Church’s commitment to support those who suffer.

“We came not just to give, but to be with the people, to listen to them, comfort them and reassure them that they have not been forgotten,” said Father Bosco Zeya Aung, superior of the Salesian visitation in Myanmar. “Our presence, united in faith and fraternity, is a small but heartfelt gesture of love from the universal Church.”

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – ‘Compassion in action’: Salesian aid for earthquake victims

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

The post MYANMAR: Salesians provide humanitarian aid to people impacted by earthquake first appeared on MissionNewswire.

MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Youth at Don Bosco Youth Center in Mandalay, Myanmar*, have a new building for bathrooms and showers thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project is part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” Sixty boys were impacted by this donation.

The boys at Don Bosco Youth Center live on the street and do not have one or both parents. Mandalay is hot, and hygienic facilities are essential for the health and well-being of the boys. The new building is helping the youth maintain cleanliness.

Father Ken Lian James, provincial economer, wrote in a letter to Salesian Missions, “Thanks to your kindness, we are now able to provide our boys with a safer, healthier environment, which also promotes ecological care and overall well-being. Your generous contribution has greatly uplifted the standard of our center and has been a true blessing for our brothers in need.”

In Myanmar, the military takeover of the democratically elected National League For Democracy Government has unleashed an unprecedented political, socioeconomic and humanitarian crisis on top of the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, sending the country into a dangerous spiral of conflict and poverty, according to the United Nations.

More than 3 million people are internally displaced, and there has been significant human suffering, asset depletion, rising food insecurity and reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. Nearly 50% of the population is estimated to be living in poverty.

Salesian missionaries are responding to the needs of children, youth and their families who are in crisis. Not only do programs address desperate poverty, but they also serve people whose lives have recently been impacted by natural disasters and a refugee emergency. Most recently, Salesians have been responding to the need of those impacted by the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay on March 28, 2025.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are continuing to respond to the needs of people impacted by the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay, Myanmar* on March 28. More than 3,500 people have died and 3,000 people are injured, according to reports from the military government. However, there are questions on the scale of the disaster given the challenges of getting information out of Myanmar. With ongoing civil strife in the country, aid has been slow.

On April, 2 Myanmar authorities announced a three-week ceasefire to facilitate rescue and relief operations. However, clashes reportedly continued between government forces of the military junta, which has ruled the country since a 2021 coup, and rebel groups in the Sagaing region.

Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, a Salesian of Don Bosco and Archbishop of Yangon, immediately called on the military junta to implement a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to reach affected areas.

“Today, I urge everyone to give peace a chance. Our people have suffered immensely. Peace is possible — peace is the only way,” Cardinal Bo stated.

Thanks to its vast network of parishes and dioceses, the Catholic Church is uniquely positioned to support relief efforts. Salesian missionaries live among the communities where they work.

The Church launched an emergency response protocol called MERCI – Myanmar Earthquake Response Church Initiative. The Diocese of Mandalay will be the first to receive aid, followed by others impacted. The relief will include community outreach, using local networks to spread information and emotional support, and using church structures as temporary shelters for displaced people; food distribution and medical care, provided through Church-run clinics or mobile units; and psychological and spiritual support, led by Catholic religious sisters, offering comfort and resilience.

When asked about aid entering the country, Cardinal Bo explained, “We believe that human vulnerability can bring people together and eliminate hatred. I have urged everyone to respect the ceasefire during this urgent humanitarian crisis. Remember — Myanmar already has more than 3 million internally displaced people due to conflict. The earthquake has disrupted the lives of another million. Altogether, nearly 15 million people have been directly or indirectly affected.”

Cardinal Bo explained that the military is working to help. He noted, “They have appealed to the international community for assistance. They have allowed many countries to stand by the people — this is a positive step. It seems they have accepted a ceasefire, at least for a month. These are good signs. But we call for a long-term solution grounded in justice, to ensure the full recovery of the population. This devastating natural disaster could become a turning point for peace and reconciliation in Myanmar.”

While some Salesian structures were impacted by the earthquake, Salesians in local programs are responding to the needs of the people with the aid they have available. Salesian communities will remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the most vulnerable.

To give to the special the Salesian Missions Myanmar Earthquake Fund, visit https://salesianmissions.org/myanmar-earthquake/.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – Cardinal Bo, SDB: “A Ceasefire to Allow Aid Is Welcome. Our People Have Suffered Greatly – Now It’s Time for Peace”

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

The post MYANMAR: Salesians provide ongoing aid for people impacted by earthquake first appeared on MissionNewswire.

MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Don Bosco Myanmar* are working to support people impacted by the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28. While their centers in Mandalay suffered damage, Salesians were responding to community needs in the immediate aftermath offering much-needed support.

A Salesian explained, “While attempting to cross the Sagaing Bridge over the River Irrawaddy, our team was unable to proceed further due to restrictions. However, this did not deter our mission to serve. By meeting with those impacted, we discovered that while many groups were providing rice boxes for daily meals, there was a severe shortage of essential items such as mosquito nets, tarpaulins, umbrellas, mats, bed sheets and pillows. The scorching heat further added to the challenges faced by the victims.”

Salesians provided electric power by running a generator, enabling people to charge their phones and lamps for the night. One of the community members expressed gratitude, saying, “It is the first time that we received free power to recharge our phones and connect with our families.”

Salesians offered drinks and snacks to people who were impacted, as well as ice cream for the children to enjoy.

The Salesian added, “The team felt deeply fulfilled, witnessing the joy and relief they brought to people. Their presence not only eased some of the material hardships but also provided emotional comfort and hope during a time of great difficulty. We will continue to assess needs and respond with the relief we can.”

The earthquake rattled much of Southeast Asia, impacting as far away as Bangkok, Thailand where it flattened a skyscraper that was under construction. More than 2,000 people have died and 3,000 people have been injured, according to reports from the military government. However, there are questions on the scale of the disaster given the challenges of getting information out of Myanmar.

Salesians around the globe have been mobilizing to send relief to Salesians living and working in Myanmar to help those most in need. Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, is one of the organizations. To give to the special Myanmar Earthquake Fund, visit https://salesianmissions.org/myanmar-earthquake/.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Myanmar – Reaching Out to Earthquake Victims in Myanmar: A Gesture of Compassion

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

The post MYANMAR: Salesian missionaries responding with aid after devastating earthquake first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) More than 50 youth participated in a theater and acting workshop in preparation for the reenactment of the “Passion of Jesus” at the Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes in Cebu, Philippines. The theatrical performance depicting the Passion and death of Jesus is staged in many parishes during Holy Week and serves not only as artistic expression but also as an educational tool.

Youth participated as both actors and crew members. A Salesian noted, “The workshop introduced participants to the creative and technical aspects of theater, engaging them in acting exercises and improvisation. Emphasis was placed on teamwork, collaboration and sensitivity, reflecting the collective nature of theater. Additionally, the experience allowed young people to develop and apply their technical skills in lighting, sound and set design.”

As part of the effort to nurture new talent in theater, three participants were selected as assistant directors, working under Annie Vic Cabije, the lead director. Cabije, a former member of the Salesian Youth Center, grew up immersed in the Salesian theatrical tradition. The “Passion of Jesus” brings the story of Jesus to life through the eyes and imagination of young people. This production continues the legacy of Saint John Bosco, who integrated performing arts into his educational system.

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Philippines – Theater and Acting Workshop for Fifty Young People from the Salesian Youth Center

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has launched an emergency appeal for donations in the wake of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Mandalay, Myanmar* on March 28.

The earthquake rattled much of Southeast Asia, impacting as far away as Bangkok, Thailand, where it flattened a skyscraper that was under construction. More than 2,000 people have died and 3,000 are injured, according to reports from the military government. However, there are questions on the scale of the disaster given the challenges of getting information out of Myanmar.

The earthquake brought widespread devastation, especially in Mandalay City, where numerous high-rise buildings, pagodas, mosques, and churches were reduced to rubble. The iconic Sagaing Bridge, spanning the famous Irrawaddy River, also suffered severe damage, with parts of the structure collapsing into the river.

Salesian Missions, along with the global Salesian community, is responding to the disaster both on the ground in impacted communities and by working to raise funding to help those most in need.

A Salesian reported, “The Salesian community in Mandalay was severely affected by the earthquake. The St. John Paul II Chapel suffered extensive damage, with its façade and parts of the walls collapsing. Tragically, two faithful who were present for Adoration were injured as well as a young boy. The building housing street children also sustained significant damage, including to its ceiling, sections of the walls and the dormitory. Classrooms and the refectory also sustained damage. The confreres’ quarters had falling plaster in several of the rooms and the corridor leading to the dining room was damaged. We will continue to assess the situation in Salesian centers and within the community.”

In Anisakan, many buildings for Salesian missionaries and sisters with Daughters of Mary Help of Christians were impacted with widespread structural damage. The St. Joseph Chapel in the Provincial House community suffered cracks at the back of the altar, and the statue of St. Joseph was broken at its pedestal.

The newly appointed Salesian Rector Major Father Fabio Attard addressed the earthquake during the March 28 morning Chapter Assembly in Turin. He led the assembly in prayer and invited in Father Bosco Zeya Aung, provincial of Myanmar, to provide a brief about the situation. Fr. Attard also said that Salesians would immediately contribute to relief efforts for those affected.

“This earthquake is coming at a time of great political instability in Myanmar, making humanitarian aid, transportation and communication extremely challenging,” explained Father Michael Conway, director of Salesian Missions. “The Salesian communities, along with the local population, are struggling to respond to the urgent needs of those affected. Salesians though live where they work and know the communities and how to get things done. This perfectly positions them to respond in the immediate aftermath of a tragedy such as this and in the long-term rebuilding process.”

Salesian communities will remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the most vulnerable. Despite the challenges posed by the earthquake and the ongoing political crisis, they will continue to bring hope and healing to those in need.

To give to the special Myanmar Earthquake Fund, visit https://salesianmissions.org/myanmar-earthquake/.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

ANS – Myanmar – Earthquake hits Don Bosco Mandalay: A Call for Solidarity and Prayer

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are working in Indigenous villages in Cambodia to provide education through schools and programs such as the Don Bosco Brother Sun Scholarship program for rural and Indigenous youth. The program focuses on the studies and well-being of 270 youth. In November and December 2024, youth in the program also received academic kits and uniforms for the start of the new year. The kits were provided thanks to the Sawasdee Foundation.

Every year, Father Samnang Albeiro Rodas, visits the northern hill provinces of Cambodia to support Don Bosco projects, including the technical school and scholarship program. This year, a delegation from Don Bosco Kep also participated to assess the impact of the scholarship program and offer new educational initiatives.

Fr. Rodas, together with teacher Ngil Vy and three Indigenous students from Don Bosco Kep, visited the provinces of Mondulkiri, Ratanakiri, Preah Vihear, Oddar Meanchey and Kampong Thom. They met representatives of the Catholic Church, representatives of other Christian denominations, the Salesian Family and families of youth in Salesian programs. They also visited a high school.

A Salesian noted, “They were able to see firsthand the situation faced by Cambodian rural families who are thriving in the middle of a fragile economy, the problem of internet addiction in many male teenagers, increasing the problem of school abandonment, and the degradation of the environment. At the same time, they were witness to the peoples’ hopes of communities for a better life, especially supporting youth who are dreaming of a better future through education and the care for the ancient traditions and spiritualities of their communities.”

Don Bosco Kep provides basic, secondary and technical education to youth who are poor and living in the Cambodian provinces of Kep, Kampot, Takeo, Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. Educational and social development programs help students break the cycle of poverty in their lives and become contributing members of their communities. Don Bosco Kep provides special attention to children and young people from ethnic minorities, youth with disabilities, youth who are orphans, and youth in danger of becoming victims of human trafficking, labor exploitation or other abuses.

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

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ANS – Cambodia – Pilgrims with Indigenous Cambodian young people: “Anchored in Hope beyond the frontiers of the Salesian Mission”

Don Bosco Kep

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) The local chapter of the Salesian Ladies Association (Asociación Damas Salesianas) launched a new medical clinic for people who are poor in Cebu City, Philippines. The association is made up of women passionate about supporting efforts that aid human needs. The clinic was opened on the 30-year anniversary of the local chapter.

The new Zatti Medical Clinic will serve people in the Salesian Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. Patients can access medical checkups on a first-come, first-served basis. Run by volunteers, the clinic will be open three days a week.

During the blessing of the clinic, Father Daniel Elemia, the local founder, spoke about how the local chapter of the association began with 20 members.

A Salesian explained, “The chapter members realized that their calling is not only in prayer but also addressing human needs. In their three-decade history, they began several social entrepreneurship projects in the parish which include livelihood and feeding programs. The new medical clinic is a renewal of a previous one that got interrupted by the recent COVID-19 pandemic.”

The Salesian Ladies Association was founded by Father Miguel González, a Salesian priest, on May 13, 1968, in Caracas, Venezuela. Since then, its centers have been growing around the world with centers currently in North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS – The Philippines – Asociación Damas Salesianas opens New Medical Clinic for Indigents

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Cambodian youth joined youth from around the globe in participating in the annual Don Bosco Global Youth Film Festival. This year’s focus was on climate change and the theme “I Have a Dream – Youth and Climate Change – Making Mother Earth Cleaner and Greener.” Social communication students from several Don Bosco schools in Cambodia were invited to participate in this Salesian event.

The winner in the East Asia-Oceania Region was “Women Guards of Mother Earth,” directed by Tula Hang, a media communication student at Don Bosco Kep in Cambodia. Also in the 10 finalists for the East Asia-Oceania Region were three films from students in Thailand and three from the Philippines, two films from Vietnam, and one from Timor-Leste.

A Salesian explained, “The Cambodian film stresses the need for community-oriented action to protect the environment. It is not enough for a single person or some groups to work for the protection of the environment if others in the community are simultaneously carrying out activities for its reduction and degradation. While a group of village women work to protect their beloved ancestral territory of wonderful giant trees, their husbands secretly cut down trees to sell them on the black market to get money for their family’s livelihood. The women confront them and seek better solutions where nature and community can work together.”

Don Bosco Kep provides basic, secondary and technical education to youth who are poor and living in the Cambodian provinces of Kep, Kampot, Takeo, Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. Educational and social development programs help students break the cycle of poverty in their lives and become contributing members of their communities. Don Bosco Kep provides special attention to children and young people from ethnic minorities, youth with disabilities, orphans, and at-risk youth in danger of becoming victims of human trafficking, labor exploitation or other abuses.

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Cambodia – Women guards of Mother Earth at DBGYFF 2024

Don Bosco Kep

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Tech in Jakarta, Indonesia, has received an award from Amazon Web Services for making an exceptional contribution to the improvement of the lives of youth and young women who are otherwise not working or receiving training. Don Bosco Tech has trained thousands of students, transforming their lives and empowering marginalized communities.

A Salesian noted, “For over a decade, Accenture Solutions Pvt. Ltd, a trusted partner of Don Bosco Tech, has played a fundamental role in supporting this initiative, financing and enabling the annual training of more than 7,000 youth in the service sector and technical industries. This collaboration allows for positive and lasting change within the poorest communities.”

Salesian missionaries are considered the largest private provider of vocational and technical training in the world. Around the globe, there are nearly 1,000 Salesian vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools — giving youth the skills for stable employment.

According to the World Bank, Indonesia’s poverty rate is 9.03% in 2024, the lowest in a decade. This is a decrease from 9.36% in March 2023. The number of poor people in Indonesia also decreased by 0.68 million people, bringing the total number of poor people to 25.22 million.

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ANS – Indonesia – Don Bosco Tech receives an award from Amazon Web Services for helping young people and women without work

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Indonesia

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(MissionNewswire) A new Salesian residence for students is currently under construction in Purwodadi, Java, Indonesia, where Salesians operate a middle school called the SMP Bhakti Mulia. Currently, 31 students live in a makeshift boarding house using old classrooms in the school as their accommodations. The new boarding house is designed to accommodate up to 60 youth.

An opening ceremony to kick off the construction took place on Sept. 24. It began with the blessing presided over by Father Vincentius Prastowo, superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Indonesia, who laid the first stone together with Father Hendrikus Tolok, rector and principal.

A Salesian explained, “All of the students, teachers and school staff participated with great enthusiasm. With the help of numerous friends of Don Bosco, Father Yohanes Boedirahardjo Soerjonoto, the economer, mobilized local resources for the new building through various activities. We are excited about the new residence and having a more comfortable living environment for our students.”

The project was also financially supported by the Rector Major’s Solidarity Fund, which supported the purchase of the land, and with support from a foundation in memory of Fr. John Lee through the Salesian Mission Office in South Korea, which will support the construction of the buildings.

According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed 2.76 million more Indonesians into poverty, bringing the country’s poverty rate to the highest level since March 2017. Due to job loss and business closure, there are 27.5 million people living below the poverty line as of September 2020. This is up significantly from 24.8 million a year earlier.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Indonesia – Opening ceremony for a new Salesian residence and college in Purwodadi

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Indonesia

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Myanmar* were able to provide housing and nutrition to 350 boys who are boarding in Salesian communities thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. These boys are mainly from war-afflicted zones where there is very little education and safety. The Salesian communities supported include Nazareth, Thibaw, Hlaing Thar Yar and Mandalay.

Donor funding helped youth during the six months of November 2023 to April 2024. During this time Salesians were able to provide the boarding for the students and meet nutrition needs, including the purchase of rice, beans, vegetables and cooking oils.

A Salesian said, “We are appreciative of Salesian Missions and the donor funding provided that has allowed us to aid 350 boys who are boarding in different Salesian communities. Education in Myanmar has been challenged given the ongoing war. We are supporting these youth with their education and basic needs like housing and nutrition.”

In Myanmar, the military takeover of the democratically elected National League For Democracy Government has unleashed an unprecedented political, socioeconomic and humanitarian crisis on top of the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, sending the country into a dangerous spiral of conflict and poverty, according to the United Nations. More than 3 million people are internally displaced, and there has been significant human suffering, asset depletion, rising food insecurity and reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. Nearly 50% of the population is estimated to be living in poverty.

Salesian missionaries are responding to the needs of children, youth and their families who are in crisis. Not only do programs address desperate poverty, but they also serve people whose lives have recently been impacted by natural disasters and a refugee emergency.

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Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan 2024

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Kep, located in the Kep province of Cambodia, hosted the governor of the province, H.E. Som Piseth, to officially open the “Five Thousand Trees Planting Program” created by the Don Bosco Green Alliance Cambodia branch.

The local government has donated 5,000 saplings so that every student and teacher receives 10 saplings to plant in their villages. The motto of the program is “Bringing the forest beyond to our own daily life” and encourages the Don Bosco community to plant trees in their villages.

Kep is one of the greenest provinces in the coastal region. Although not covering a large geographic distance, Kep features hills, caves, beaches, mangroves, salt fields and a peninsula of 13 islands and islets. Its population of 50,000 is dedicated to agriculture, fishing and tourism.

Thvinh Sarl, a first-year student in the IT department, was chosen by the Don Bosco Green Alliance Cambodia to make a speech to thank the governor. As an Indigenous youth from Ratanakiri, Sarl said that it is important that everyone join together to protect the environment.

Father Albeiro Rodas reminded the Don Bosco Kep community, “We, Cambodians, can help improve our environment. We are descendants of brave Cambodian ancestors who built wonderful temples. We are capable of reviving forests that are also sacred temples of Mother Earth.”

Piseth underlined the importance of the environment as a place where communities come together to protect life. He said, “We are also part of the environment, and we need to look for ways to preserve nature.” During the opening ceremony Piseth planted a tree on the Don Bosco Kep campus, near an older tree planted years ago by former Governor H.E. Khem Satha.

Don Bosco Kep provides basic, secondary and technical education to youth who are poor and living in the Cambodian provinces of Kep, Kampot, Takeo, Ratanakiri and Mondulkiri. The organization’s educational and social development programs help students break the cycle of poverty in their lives and become contributing members of their communities. Don Bosco Kep provides special attention to children and young people from ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, orphans and at-risk youth in danger of becoming victims of human trafficking, labor exploitation or other abuses.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Cambodia – Kep Province governor opens Don Bosco tree planting program

Don Bosco Kep

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Mountaineering Society, which was founded in 1988 for those who have a passion for the outdoors, has carried out a tree-planting program at Don Bosco Colle in Calamba, Laguna, Philippines. This initiative helps to mitigate the effects of climate change while creating livelihood opportunities for the surrounding communities. Don Bosco Mountaineering Society also donated gardening equipment to Don Bosco Colle and plans to nurture and plant more seedlings in the coming months.

A Salesian explained, “This program provides a valuable educational opportunity for the children of Don Bosco Mountaineering Society’s members, encouraging their active participation in tree-planting activities, deepening their understanding of environmental issues and promoting conservation efforts.”

Salesian organizations in the Philippines and around the globe are focused on environmentally friendly activities and education. Part of this was driven by Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5-15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20% of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20%.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Tree-planting program in the Philippines!

Don Bosco Mountaineering Society Facebook

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Youth Vocational Training Center, located in Vientiane, is the only Salesian center in Laos. It started in 2004 with five past pupils who were graduates of the Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, Thailand. They wanted to start a small training center for youth in need and created the school based on their school in Bangkok.

Under the guidance and financial support of Salesian missionaries from the Saint Paul Province of Thailand, the past pupils started training courses in auto mechanics, electricity and motorcycle repair. The center gradually developed and became known to the Lao Youth Union for Youth Development, the youth wing of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, the ruling party in Laos.

A Salesian noted, “Appreciating the work done for Laotian youth, a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Don Bosco Foundation of Thailand. Students are selected from the 18 provinces of Laos according to the parameters established by the Don Bosco Youth Training Center and the Department of Youth Union. Local government officials have expressed appreciation for the great help that has been given to poor families.”

To date, more than 1,500 youth have been trained. Statistics from the Lao Youth Union for Youth Development indicate that 75% of graduates have a job, which has been an important factor in helping families get out of conditions of poverty. The training courses offered are free, but the resident students are required to contribute to meals.

Poverty in Laos, formally known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, has been on the decline for the last decade, according to the World Bank. Despite improvements in the economy, the poverty rate in Laos is at 18.6%. Poverty in Laos tends to be higher in underdeveloped, mountainous areas of the country. People who live in these isolated areas are often left without access to electricity, schools and roads.

Many of the ethnic minorities in Laos live in underserved, rural areas. The minority groups are further isolated by barriers in language, customs and religion. These factors, combined with geographic isolation, contributes to a higher rate of poverty for those who live in rural communities.

The economy in Laos has been rapidly growing. The growth can be attributed to the fact that Laos is home to a bounty of natural resources including water, minerals and forests. Additionally, construction, and services have expanded and contributed to an increase in tourism and foreign investment.

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ANS – Laos – Salesian commitment to the holistic development of poor youth

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Laos

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Students, along with staff from several Salesian schools, traveled to Cambodia this summer to take part in the Salesian Australia-Pacific Province’s international volunteer program. Volunteers provided activities at schools and also took part in cultural activities.

The first destination was the Don Bosco Salesian Technical School in Phnom Penh. Volunteers facilitated dance activities, arts and crafts, sports, games, and English lessons with the aim of sharing special moments with young Cambodians. The volunteers also helped repair the school’s roof, which offered them hands-on training.

When the work was done, volunteers engaged in cultural activities to learn more about the country. They visited the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum where they were able to reflect on the impact that armed conflicts had on a nation.

Next, volunteers visited the border town of Poipet with a short stop to visit the two Salesian schools in Battambang. In Poipet, volunteers facilitated similar activities as they did in Phnom Penh. They also had the opportunity to visit the city of Siem Reap.

A Salesian noted, “At the end of the trip the volunteers shared their feelings and thoughts about the experience. Despite the short time spent in Cambodia and language difficulties, young Cambodian and Australian students have created a lasting friendship.”

Salesians in Cambodia provide primary and secondary schools along with technical education so youth have an opportunity to gain an education and develop the skills for employment. These educational services are bolstered by social development programs that help youth have access to basic needs like food, shelter and life skills training.

According to the World Bank, poverty continues to fall in Cambodia. The country has lifted 50% of the total poor out of poverty in the last seven, according to the latest United Nations Development Programme Country Programme Document 2024-2028. Multidimensional poverty fell from 36.7% to 16.6% and the number of people living in poverty dropped from 5.6 million to 2.8 million.

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ANS – Cambodia – The Australian Salesian Province’s Cagliero Project Immersive programme

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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THAILAND.

(MissionNewswire) More than 50 students from the Salesian SME program, located in Hatyai, Thailand, came together with teachers and parents to plant mangrove trees and release small crabs at the Mangrove Forest Conservation Club in the Singhanakhon District. The goal was to have a positive impact on the environment by planting trees to reduce soil degradation, minimize erosion and improve air quality in the region.

A Salesian explained, “Reforestation is a new beginning to restore the balance of nature. Mangroves in particular are of great importance to the ecology, environment, society and economy of many countries. Involving the young students of Salesian schools in this activity of planting mangroves and the liberation of small crabs is a formative moment seeking to make them aware of their duty to take care of the earth and the environment.”

Salesian organizations in Thailand and around the globe are focused on environmentally friendly activities and education. Part of this was driven by Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million people below the poverty line.

Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS – Thailand – Salesian school students plant mangroves, for a positive impact on the environment

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) The Don Bosco Media Team in Anisakan, Myanmar*, has been offering computer training courses for youth. The organization provides laptops for the training at different locations to make it more accessible. To date, 150 young people have benefited from the training courses, including 50 youth who have already obtained certificates of completion.

A Salesian said, “Basic computer skills are one of the requirements that today’s young people require in order to enter both the field of education and any other professional sphere in global society. Just to acquire basic computer skills, many young locals have to travel hundreds of kilometers to big cities, such as Yangon and Mandalay.”

The Salesian noted how challenging that is for many youth. He added, “Expenses incurred for travel, food and lodging are always much more expensive than expenses for computer training. In addition, being away from your family can also lead to social problems if they are not cautious enough about the threats in city life. With all these underlying reasons, Salesians have launched the computer course to make this training more accessible and affordable for youth.”

The military takeover of the democratically elected National League For Democracy Government has unleashed an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, and humanitarian crisis on top of the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, sending the country into a dangerous spiral of conflict and poverty, according to the United Nations. There has been significant displacement, human suffering, asset depletion, rising food insecurity and reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. Nearly 50% of the population is estimated to be living in poverty.

Salesian missionaries are responding to the needs of children, youth and their families who are in crisis. Not only do programs address desperate poverty, but they also serve people whose lives have recently been impacted by natural disasters and a refugee emergency.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Myanmar – Computer training courses for local youth

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

United Nations – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview 2023 (January 2023)

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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PHILIPPINES.

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Calauan in the Philippines carried out a tree-planting activity as part of the climate change adaptation and mitigation program. In three to five years, the saplings that were planted will grow into strong fruit-bearing trees to prevent flooding, promote clean air and produce food.

Father Paul Michael B. Suarez, rector, led the tree-planting. He started the event a brief review of climate change and its effects, and the goal and significance of planting trees.

A Salesian explained, “Activities such as this are teaching youth the importance of environmental sustainability. More than teaching in classrooms, youth are getting outside in the dirt and taking concrete action to improve their surroundings while learning important lessons.”

Don Bosco Calauan is located among a densely populated community that is mostly relocated families who are among the poorest and most disenfranchised. When the government moved these families to Calauan, they left their source of income in Manila. People engage in informal activities or trades to earn a living. Many children are malnourished and families still struggle to survive due to the results of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2010, Salesian missionaries launched skills training programs to help people learn trades and develop the skills for employment.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5-15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20% of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20%.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic but has been slowly coming back down. A self-reported survey conducted by the government in the first half of 2024 indicated that 42% of the population identifies as poor, a 3% decrease from 2023. This means that 11.1 million families felt their situation this year was better than last and certainly improved from 2021 when the country saw close to 4 million more people become poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of the Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Tree Plantation Activity at Don Bosco TVET Center – Calauan, Inc., Philippines

Don Bosco Calauan

Salesian Missions – Philippines

World Bank – Philippines

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Students from Don Bosco Saengthong Vitthaya School, and the Thidanukhro School, run by the Sisters of Mary Help of Christians in the Songkhla Province, volunteered to do nature conservation work at the Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary National Park in Thailand. The volunteers consisted of 53 students along with teachers and parents.

The Songkhla and Satun provinces, where the schools are located, have a large area of forest with abundant wildlife. The area serves as watershed for many streams that flow into the basin of Lake Songkhla, an important water source for the surrounding environment.

The volunteer day started with the group listening to Panapon Chiva Sereechon, director of the park, who spoke about the conservation of natural resources and the role of national park officials in the area. Students then volunteered to help collect garbage and clean up the area around the park. They also built a low-head dam to slow down the water at Ton Nga Chang waterfall.

A Salesian noted, “These activities have helped students understand the benefits of building dams, which retain water and reduce soil erosion, as well as helping to retain sediments and miscellaneous materials that come down with the water in the stream. This helps increase biological diversity and becomes a habitat for aquatic animals.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million people below the poverty line.

Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Thailand – Students, teachers and parents volunteer for the nature conservation of the “Ton Nga Chang Wildlife Sanctuary”

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Tigaraksa, located in Tangerang Regency, Indonesia, operate a training center called Balai Latihan Kerja for poor youth in the region. The center is unique because about 93.7% of the 150 current students are Muslim and 95% of the teaching staff are Muslim.

A Salesian missionary explained, “The students came to know Don Bosco through the presence of Salesians, and they even called themselves the Bosconian Youth. It is certainly a unique thing to see Muslim youth wearing a headscarf and claiming themselves to be Bosconian youth. For them, Don Bosco is a great man and a good person who is loyal to helping the small, weak, poor, marginalized, and disabled young people in the world. Don Bosco’s presence among Muslims in this area has changed the paradigm of local youth to see universal human values. We are all different in ethnicity, race and religion, but because we are humans, love is everything. The human person is very valuable because it is a creation that deserves attention.”

Hundreds of students and alumni recently attended events for Don Bosco’s Day, which is celebrated the first week of February every year. Father Advent, the director of the center, noted that the theme of the day was in line Rector Major’s Strenna “The dream that makes you dream.” Don Bosco’s Day event was filled with modern and traditional dance, drama, games, and live music.

Father Andang, rector of the Salesian Don Bosco Community of Tigaraksa, invited students and alumni to dream together to achieve a better future. He reminded them that Don Bosco’s first dream at the age of 9 had opened a wide path for him to become the father, teacher and friend of youth throughout his life.

According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed 2.76 million more Indonesians into poverty, bringing the country’s poverty rate to the highest level since March 2017. Due to job loss and business closure, there are 27.5 million people living below the poverty line as of September 2020. This is up significantly from 24.8 million a year earlier.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Indonesia – Muslim students dreaming with Don Bosco

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Indonesia

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Archdiocesan Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish’s Youth Coordination Council has facilitated the training “Identifying Emotional Abuse in the Family.” More than 150 members from various youth groups of the Salesian Youth Movement, recipients of youth scholarships and members of other parishes participated in the meeting held in the Philippines.

May Margaret Sim, a counselor and psychologist, shared her experience in recognizing emotional abuse within the family and shared her insight on how to deal with it. She also taught young people how to cope with emotional trauma. Father Fidel Ma. Orendain, superior of the Salesian Province of the Southern Philippines, also spoke at the event as part of the provincial visit to the parish.

A Salesian noted, “This is information that is applicable to all youth. Whether the emotional abuse is occurring at home, school or within their friend groups, being able to identify emotional abuse is the first step in addressing and overcoming the trauma it can cause. The goal is to bring awareness to the issue and help youth learn strategies to address it while also providing them the support they need.”

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesians offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Philippines – Forming Young People for Life: Identifying Emotional Abuse in the Family

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Youth at Don Bosco Boys’ Home in Liloan, Cebu, Philippines, have 15 new accordions thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. There are 45 boys at the home and, prior to the donation, there were only four accordions. The donation is giving all the students the opportunity to learn how to play the accordion. Other young people are also being invited to learn.

Salesian Brother Alexander Abelgas provides accordion lessons for the interested students. Each of them takes a lesson to learn the notes before using the instrument. They then advance to 30-minute daily practice to learn more about the instrument and to play difficult songs. The students who can play proficiently will be given the opportunity to accompany the Mass and community celebrations.

Don Bosco Boys’ Home was established in 1989 to provide residential care and education to boys living in poverty in Cebu. Thirty-three boys, ages 12-17, are in junior high school while 12 boys, ages 16-20, are in senior high at the Liloan National High School-Don Bosco Campus, located within the boys’ home compound.

A Salesian noted, “The goal is to reintegrate the boys to society, so they can have a good future for themselves. Our motto is ‘We help the boys help themselves in life.’ At the home, they experience group living enhanced by educational, social, cultural and spiritual interventions. They are provided food, clothing, toiletries, and medical and dental care. The boys follow a daily schedule that is aimed to foster discipline, personal development and interpersonal skills.”

The boys wake up early to prepare for school. After class, they have time for recreation including games, music and arts. Dinner is followed by time for tutorials and study before sleeping. On Fridays, the boys watch a film.

“The boys are assigned different home chores daily to promote personal responsibility, cleanliness and organization,” added the Salesian. “They also have singing, music, dancing, arts classes, sports practices and competitions. Every first and third weekends of the month, the boys have home and family visitations.”

Since 1950, Salesian missionaries have been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries facilitated the second edition of the “Voices” program, which amplifies the silent voices of youth, providing them with the platform and support they need. The most recent edition was held at Don Bosco Kep in Kep, Cambodia. The program is promoted by the Social Communication Sector of the Salesian Congregation.

In Cambodia, eight different Indigenous groups were involved over the two-day program at Don Bosco Kep. The groups were mainly from the northern province of Ratanakiri and provinces such as Oddar Meanchey, which is the ancestral land of the Kuy people.

“The goal is to give voice to Indigenous people in Cambodia, especially those whose voices are often ignored, silenced or attacked through discrimination and social injustice,” said Father Albeiro Rodas, director of Don Bosco Kep.

During the event, Indigenous people shared their identity, language, traditions, spirituality, territory and problems. With their traditional customs, one youth and one Cha Thom or elder, discussed these topics while adding stories and proposals for solutions. Day one of the event concluded with a cultural night and ancestral traditional music and dances performed by students. Day two provided a time for Indigenous people to share their concerns about the challenges they face and their hopes and aspirations for the future.

All participants visited the Bokor National Park Mountain, a sacred place for Cambodians. Participants gathered inside a 100-year-old abandoned Catholic Church for a moment of prayer. This was followed by  a short ceremony led by Fr. Rodas and Father Harris Pakkam, from the Social Communication Sector in Rome. All involved symbolically expressed commitment to protect and defend Indigenous rights and traditions and share the knowledge to the rest of the world.

The concluding ceremony took place around a camp fire under the full moon, where the Indigenous groups were represented by an elder and youth who shared their impressions and the impact of the program. The elders expressed a great sense of gratitude for the awareness that had been had created. They also suggested that all the discussions be documented and published in a book in the Khmer and English languages.

One elder of the Lun Indigenous group remarked, “I am grateful for this invitation to participate. It is the first time that I met members of other Indigenous groups and I found not only so many similarities in our traditions, but also in our problems and challenges.”

Bonny Seun, a young Indigenous leader from the Jarai group who coordinated the event, concluded, “This is a historic event for Indigenous people, as it is the first time they have come together under this program to participate, speak and discuss. I hope that there will be lot of awareness created about the situation and plight of the Indigenous people who also have a dream and a future.”

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Cambodia – Indigenous People speak up at VOICES, Cambodia

ANS – RMG – “Voices” returns to East Asia-Oceania, to listen to the Indigenous Young People

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian Brother Alex Abelgas from Don Bosco Boys Home, located in Liloan, Cebu, Philippines, has started a garden using hydroponics technology. He created it in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

Through vegetable production, Bro. Abelgas is promoting well-being for young people. He grew lettuce using a water-based nutrient solution rather than soil. Using money raised from his close friends, he constructed a new greenhouse, which is now one of the main attractions at Don Bosco Boys Home.

A Salesian noted, “Though still at the early stage of his project, Bro. Abelgas has already provided lettuce for the Salesian community. He partnered with the Department of Agriculture and hopes to attach the project as one of the programs that will be implemented by the Don Bosco Boys Home Training Center, headed by Father Ding. The goal is not only for sustainability but to provide training for youth and the nearby community.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Up Beat Response To Pope Francis’ – “Laudato Si”

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Thailand Planning and Development Office provided bags of food to 120 poor working families from Burma, Laos and Cambodia, as well as people with disabilities. This distribution was part of the “Share Love at Christmas” project at the end of 2023.

A Salesian noted, “The families live in the area of the parish of Mary Help of Christians, mostly comprising of Muslims and Buddhists. The food parcels were prepared by the church youth group and were received with appreciation and gratitude. This was a wonderful way to give back to our community and ensure people have the nutrition they need.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. One of the best-known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Its education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million people below the poverty line.

Although the country had made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Thailand – Food baskets delivered to more than 120 needy families

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) For the first time, Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical Technology Center (known locally as Don Bosco Legazpi), located in Banquerohan, Legazpi City, Philippines, participated in the welding competition in the 2023 Albay Provincial Skills Competition held at the San Francisco Institute of Technology and hosted by the Technical Education Skills Development Authority.

The theme of this year’s competition was “Albay Technical Prowess: Fostering Innovation and Excellence” and showcased youth’s individual skills, practical ability, and innovation. Skills competitions were held in various fields of specialization.

The competition helped give young Filipinos a passion for skill development, provided recognition for technical excellence, and selected gifted and empowered individuals to represent the country in the international skills competition. It also fosters collaboration among private industries, organizations, technical and vocational training centers, and other institutions. The event brought together 11 competitive institutions in different technical fields.

John Mark Allen Belludo, age 18, represented Don Bosco Legazpi in welding. When he first entered Don Bosco Legazpi, Belludo had limited knowledge in welding, but his workmanship was recognized by Dysel Kerr Padilla, Belludo’s teacher in shielded metal arc welding. As Belludo began preparing for the competition, Loui Sibbaluca, an expert in welding, became his coach. The welding test package allowed four hours to accomplish the given task. Belludo received a certificate of recognition after the event.

Another project was the “Solar Powered Motorized Vehicle” project, the result of research and development conducted by Gilbert Banga, assistant director for technical affairs at Don Bosco Legazpi. This project showcased green technology in daily living, especially for commuters and owners of motorcycles. Audience members sought additional information from Banga after the demonstration.

A Salesian said, “This kind of event reminds and enlightens each person to harness their extraordinary giftedness that aims to contribute to technological innovations for the welfare and development of our society.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Philippines – Don Bosco Legazpi joins the 2023 Albay Provincial Skills Tilt

Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical Technology Center Facebook

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Students in the Salesian Banpong Band took part in a preparation camp to get ready for their upcoming performance at the Salesian Sports Festival, Thailand, which will be held in January 2024. The camp brought together 220 youth from five different Salesian schools.

The students were divided into groups according to the musical instrument they play and were assigned a teacher to help them practice. After, the students came together to play as one. The camp was an opportunity for these students not only to practice music and showcase their musical talents, but also to socialize and create a team spirit.

“Salesians encourage youth to learn an instrument and participate in bands when possible as it’s a great learning tool to help in all facets of life,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Music can help enhance their social skills and develop new friendships. Being a member of an orchestra or band provides opportunities to improve team skills, as the musicians need to listen to each other and work together.”

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21% in 2000 to 10.9% in 2018, according to the World Bank. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million below poverty line.

Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS) 

ANS – Thailand – Students belonging to the Banpong Band are preparing for their performance at the Salesian Sports Festival

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Staff and students from Don Bosco School of Theology supported the International Coastal Clean Up Day on Sept. 16 by participating in cleanup at Julugan Fish Terminal in Tanza, Cavite, Philippines. The day was sponsored by Coca Cola and was in partnership with International Coastal Clean Up Philippines, the Lighthouse Marina Resort Legacy Foundation and Plastic Bank.

More than 100 countries participated in the cleanup of beaches and bodies of water on this day. Don Bosco School of Theology students experienced firsthand how a community can impact marine and coastal conservation.

Participants picked up trash and then learned about waste segregation and weighing trash. In total, 8,073 pieces of trash were collected during the cleanup. Plastic beverage bottles were the number one waste along the coastlines. Foam dock pieces, other plastic items, glass bottles, paper cups and plates, lines, nets, traps and ropes were also collected.

The cleanup and waste segregation was followed by a lecture by Zed Avecilla, the president of Lighthouse Marina Foundation, Inc. His lecture focused on the importance of marine and coastal ecosystems as well as the various activities that threaten these ecosystems. The need for conservation efforts as well as assessment methods, sustainable management practices and community engagement practices were also included in his discussion.

A Salesian said, “To make the activity more meaningful, participants were given the opportunity to reflect and share their takeaways and realizations from the activity. They were also asked to think of what they can do to become stewards of the environment. This was a great opportunity for learning and giving back to the community.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Don Bosco School of Theology, Philippines participates in Marine Coastal Cleanup!

Don Bosco School of Theology

Salesian Missions – Philippines

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) Students in a Salesian school in Myanmar* have laptop computers thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Donor funding was utilized to purchase 25 laptops to help the students with their education and for them to learn basic computer skills. The school set up internet and the electrical wiring for a new computer room for the 300 students as well as hired skilled staff to teach the course. The donation was sent in 2022.

Father Khun Myat Victor, provincial economer in Myanmar, said, “We have just set up the computer room and the first group of young people have begun their lessons on basic computer skills.”

Myanmar has suffered political violence and instability since the military coup took over power in February 2021. There has been ongoing violence and chaos, and schools have been shut because of this and the COVID-19 pandemic. Salesians are opening their schools to enable youth to get back to their education, which they have been without for two years. Classes focus on English, computers and math.

“Computer skills are essential for students today to compete in the global economy,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions. “We are grateful for our donors who enable the Salesians in Myanmar to complete the computer room with new laptop computers for the students.”

The military takeover of the democratically elected National League For Democracy Government has unleashed an unprecedented political, socioeconomic, and humanitarian crisis on top of the continuing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, sending the country into a dangerous spiral of conflict and poverty, according to the United Nations. There has been significant displacement, human suffering, asset depletion, rising food insecurity and reversal of many of the development gains made in recent years. Nearly 50% of the population is estimated to be living in poverty.

Salesian missionaries are responding to the needs of children, youth and their families who are in crisis. Not only do programs address desperate poverty, but they also serve people whose lives have recently been impacted by natural disasters and a refugee emergency.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco – Myanmar

Salesian Missions – Myanmar

U.N. – Myanmar Humanitarian Needs Overview 2023 (January 2023)

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical College, located in Cebu, Philippines, organized a two-day first aid training “Common Emergencies and Basic Life Support” for youth in July. The training was held in collaboration with Recoletos University in San Jose and the Adelante Life Emergency Rescue Team-Emergency Medical Service.

Close to 50 youth volunteers came to prepare for responding to emergencies effectively. These youth were from Don Bosco Youth Center in Lourdes, Don Bosco Technical College, Salesian Youth Movement and Don Bosco Youth Center in Lawaan.

Youth learned the difference between first aid and emergency response service, the characteristics and principles of first aid, the step-by-step process of executing CPR, and about relief for an obstructed airway. A practical exam was given to participants at the end of the training.

In addition, youth learned how to make square knots, bandage fractures, splint bone dislocations and manage wounds of various natures. They were asked to master essential medical skills and also practiced carrying, lifting, and transferring patients.

A Salesian said, “As these young individuals gain the knowledge and skills to respond to emergencies and assist professional emergency personnel, they become a beacon of hope and support in their communities. By empowering youth with first aid training, a generation of responsible, caring and resilient citizens is nurtured ready to make a difference in the lives of others.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – Youth Volunteers Successfully Complete Emergency Response Training

Don Bosco Technical College Facebook

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Saint Dominic School in Bangkok, Thailand, has installed 816 solar panels over three buildings on the campus. Salesians recognize the importance of implementing sustainable practices to promote environmental stewardship. One of the school’s goals is energy conservation by utilizing renewable sources in the school’s infrastructure.

A Salesian said, “In addition to the environmental benefits, solar energy also serves as an educational tool, facilitates teaching and learning activities, and reduces electricity expenses. The Salesian Society Foundation of Thailand’s green initiative not only focuses on utilizing solar energy for electricity generation in schools but instilling a sense of environmental responsibility to foster a culture of sustainability by increasing green spaces and balancing nature.”

Solar panels with the newest technology, made of high-quality premium-grade silicon, were installed in March 2022. The installation was completed in September of the same year. The solar panels were installed on the Bosco, Savio and Michael Rua building rooftops.

The school will see several benefits from the solar panels. By reducing monthly electricity bills, the difference in electricity expenses can be utilized for other needs at the school. In addition, the solar panels help reduce the heat reaching the roof. They provide shade during day, saving electricity as air conditioners do not need to work as hard.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21% in 2000 to 10.9% in 2018, according to the World Bank. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. There are 8.1 million people in Thailand who are poor and 4.4 million below poverty line.

Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive. More children are also dropping out of school, especially those who are not living with their parents.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – St. Dominic Savio School, Bangkok, Thailand installs solar energy system

Saint Dominic School

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

The Nation Thailand – Poverty Rates

World Bank – Thailand

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Institute in Makati City, Philippines, has collaborated with Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc. and the Department of Education Taguig City and Pateros for the development of Hyundai Accelerate, an educational program dedicated to providing disadvantaged youth with opportunities in the automotive industry, according to a recent ZigWheels article.

Don Bosco Technical Institute was established in 1954 and provides technical and vocational training. Graduates are certified to work as automobile mechanics, general electricians, fitter machinists, refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanics, and industrial electronics workers.

The new Hyundai Accelerate program will be open to 40 students from Metro Manila. The program includes eight months of classroom and practical lessons and four months of on-the-job training at a Hyundai service center. Students will be evaluated through quarterly and midterm progress reports, which will also determine the possibility of their employment with Hyundai dealer partners.

“At Hyundai Motor, we have a strong commitment to give back to society. This is rooted from our brand vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’ wherein we believe that mobility is more than going from one place to another, rather connecting people with quality time and enabling them to get more out of life, leading us to forming Hyundai Accelerate,” said Dongwook Lee, Hyundai Motor Philippines, Inc.’s president, in the article.

He added, “It is our grassroots scholarship program dedicated to providing Filipino senior high school graduates an opportunity for further studies. This project is a special one, as it not only cultivates teaching moments, but more importantly, uplifts the lives of our future mentees.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80% of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco Institute Makati

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

Zigwheels – Hyundai Motor PH Teams Up with Don Bosco Technical Institute and DepEd TAPAT for ‘Hyundai Accelerate’

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Many Salesian schools around the globe are working to add environmentally friendly practices and curriculum in response to Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which had as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth shape a lifestyle and foster environmental responsibility.

Don Bosco Hotel School in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, is one of the schools striving to keep its campus green. Students are involved in cleaning up the grounds, washing down sidewalks and keeping the school litter free.

“This is one of many examples of students getting involved in cleaning up their surroundings,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “From tree planting and organic gardens to clean up days and courses on environmentally sustainable practices, Salesians around the globe are helping students understand the importance of protecting the environment.”

Don Bosco Hotel School is focused on helping students gain the skills needed for employment in the hospitality industry. The school also runs a hotel that is open to the public. The hotel earns revenue to support Salesian programs and students while allowing students to gain real-work experience.

“Students attending the Don Bosco Hotel School have an opportunity to gain the skills needed for a work in an employment sector that is always hiring,” added Fr. Ploch. “While students gain the skills they need, projects like this also ensure Salesian programs have the funding needed to stay in operation and meet the needs of poor youth in the community who might not otherwise be able to afford an education.”

Don Bosco Hotel School is part of the broader Don Bosco Technical School and is one of six technical schools supported by the Don Bosco Foundation in Cambodia. The foundation provides technical skills training for youth between 16 and 22 who have completed at least the 8th grade. The technical schools are located in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kep, Battambang and Poipet, and provide courses in automotive, industrial mechanics, electricity and electronics, social communication, secretarial and office administration, tailoring, hospitality, welding, agriculture, information technology, and language and arts communication.

According to the World Bank, poverty continues to fall in Cambodia. In 2020, the poverty rate was close to 17.8% compared to 47.8% in 2007. About 90% of the poor live in the countryside. While Cambodia achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving poverty in 2009, the vast majority of families who escaped poverty were only able to do so by a small margin. Around 4.5 million people remain near-poor, vulnerable to falling back into poverty when exposed to economic and other external challenges. Most of those escaping poverty are earning their living in non-farming activities. The national school dropout rate increased in 2019-20, reversing years of declining trends. About 14% of poor children ages 6 to 17 dropped out in early 2022.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Green Alliance

Don Bosco Green Alliance – Green Campus at Don Bosco Hotel School, Cambodia

Don Bosco Technical School

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

The post CAMBODIA: Students green their campus first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical Vocational Education and Training Center, located in Balamban, a municipality in Cebu, Philippines, recently harvested vegetables growing in its Laudato Si’ Garden. The garden is named after Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which had as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth shape a lifestyle and foster environmental responsibility.

The garden is tended by Father Tass and a team of trainees from the center to provide nutritious food for 60 students attending the Don Bosco Center. A Salesian explained, “The garden’s existence is deeply rooted in the center’s sustainability plan, serving as a living example of environmentally friendly practices and fostering a profound appreciation for nature and ecological responsibility among the students.”

The Don Bosco Center was established in 1998 with a course offering industrial welding. It has expanded to offer additional welding qualifications for students such as basic gas metal arc welding, basic flux cored arc welding and shielded metal arc welding. The center is part of 18 Salesian technical and vocational training centers in the Philippines.

“Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for at-risk and marginalized youth,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.”

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80% of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Center Balamban

Don Bosco Center Balamban – Harvest Time

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Garden feeds 60 technical training students first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Six students who attend Don Bosco Technical Institute in Makati City, Philippines, were supported with their education thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Five of the students are in the automotive program while the sixth student is taking the fitter machinist course. The students have completed their coursework and will advance to hands-on training with their graduation in September 2023.

Don Bosco Technical Institute was established in 1971 to provide poor and underprivileged youth with the skills training to find and retain employment. Today, the institute teaches close to 800 students in courses including automotive, machine shop, electrical and electronics, and printing.

The institute has also developed long-term partnerships with organizations that help ensure students are able to access on-the-job training and find employment once they graduate. Partnerships have been developed with Ford and Porsche, among others.

Students enrolled in the Porsche program complete a 10-month basic training course that includes both theoretical and practical training at the Don Bosco Technical Institute where Porsche has set up and equipped a dedicated training facility. During the program, students undergo advanced Berlitz-administered language lessons in English and Spanish, as well as training in customer service.

Twice a year the institute selects its top 35 students to advance to a comprehensive nine-month training program with Porsche specialists where students train on official Porsche vehicles using Porsche specialized tools. The program’s curriculum is continuously developing and adapting to the latest innovations and technology.

“We are grateful for our donor who is helping to ensure these students are able to finish their education and advance to hands-on training,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions. “Don Bosco Technical Institute provides a solid education and has developed the right partnerships to ensure students make an easy transition from the classroom to the workplace, setting them up for long-term success.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80% of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco Technical Institute

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Students continue education thanks to donor funding first appeared on MissionNewswire.

VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian School of Theology, located in Xuan Hiep, Thu Duc District of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, received a pallet of books in 2022 thanks to a donation secured by Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. There are 50 students who attend the theology program. The library on the campus is not only for these students, but also for members of other religious congregations in the area.

“We are grateful to our donors who have ensured Salesian seminary students had access to the books they need for their studies,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions. “The cost of materials is often too much for some Salesian programs so donors who can help supplement these items contribute to the overall quality education that is the Salesian standard. The Salesians in Vietnam were happy with the books and appreciated the support.”

Salesian schools, services and programs throughout Vietnam are helping to break the cycle of poverty while giving many young people hope for a more positive and productive future. Salesian vocational and technical schools equip students with the skills they need to compete in the local labor market by offering courses that lead to employment in construction, hotel management, electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, and other fields. Many Salesian students are school dropouts seeking a second chance.

According to the World Bank, close to 14% of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60%. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90% and 70% respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

The post VIETNAM: Theology students advance studies with donated books first appeared on MissionNewswire.

CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical School in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, is preparing youth for employment in highly sought after industry sectors. The school provides education for youth from poor and disadvantaged backgrounds who might not otherwise have access to advanced education. Thousands of students have benefited from its various programs in hospitality and tourism, electrical, mechanical, welding, automotive, and secretarial skills.

The school has also developed strong partnerships with many businesses, both locally and internationally, to ensure graduates make an easy transition from the classroom to the working environment. One of the school’s successful programs is the Don Bosco Hotel School, which was established in 2007.

The hotel school provides students education in the hospitality industry in a real working hotel and restaurant. The hotel and restaurant are open to the public, and students are able to apply the skills they are learning. The hotel is self-sustainable, enabling revenue earned to support Salesian programs and students.

“Students attending the Don Bosco Hotel School have an opportunity to gain the skills needed for work in the hospitality industry, which always has employment opportunities and is in need of a strong workforce,” said Father Timothy Ploch, interim director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Given the sustainability of the hotel school, Salesians have ensured they have the funding they need while meeting the needs of poor youth in the community.”

Don Bosco Technical School is one of six technical schools supported by the Don Bosco Foundation in Cambodia. The foundation provides technical skills training for youth between 16 and 22 who have completed at least the eighth grade. The technical schools are located in Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kep, Battambang and Poipet.

According to the World Bank, poverty continues to fall in Cambodia. In 2020, the poverty rate was close to 17.8% compared to 47.8% in 2007. About 90% of the poor live in the countryside. While Cambodia has achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving poverty in 2009, the vast majority of families who escaped poverty were only able to do so by a small margin. Around 4.5 million people remain near-poor, vulnerable to falling back into poverty when exposed to economic and other external challenges. Most of those escaping poverty are earning their living in non-farming activities. The national school dropout rate increased in 2019-20, reversing years of declining trends. About 14% of poor children aged 6-17 dropped out in early 2022.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Don Bosco Technical School

Don Bosco Technical School

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

The post CAMBODIA: Youth build skills at working hotel, restaurant first appeared on MissionNewswire.

(MissionNewswire) Sacred Heart of Jesus Post-Novitiate Salesian community in Sunter, North Jakarta, Indonesia, has been taking steps to increase environmentally friendly practices. Salesians are composting leftover vegetables and fruit from the kitchen and no longer throwing garbage outside of their community. Everything is being utilized on the grounds and much of it has become fertilizer. New plastic drums are being used to process other waste.

Salesians are also collecting used beverage bottles to recycle, which keeps them from going into the ocean. In addition, the money earned from recycling turns into social funds for the community.

To get started, Salesians developed an agreement with Angga Rizyan, coordinator for Plastic Bank Indonesia, a private organization that collects and recycles plastics. Plastic waste, especially plastic bottles, is difficult to decompose. The bottles need to be collected and processed properly.

Now, Salesians and people in the nearby community regularly collect plastic bottles. After growth in the number of plastic bottles collected, a storage facility was built. Two Salesians were assigned to work with the bottles in the storage facility. They remove the caps from the bottles, separate the plastic wrapping and flatten the bottles so that they fit in sacks. If there are a lot of bottles, the whole community works together.

Plastic bottles have been delivered to the Plastic Bank’s team twice. The first collection garnered 216 kilograms (about 476 pounds) of plastic bottles. The second included 385 kilograms (about 849 pounds) of both plastic bottles and water cans.

Brother Bernardinus Mei said, “The most positive thing has been reducing plastic bottles being wasted or scattered everywhere. There is an awareness now to collect plastic bottles, thereby reducing waste. People who routinely collect plastic bottles also participate in protecting their yard and the environment. If everyone has the same awareness, then gradually we will all be able to provide environmental protection to our surroundings and prevent plastic pollution in the oceans. The bottles are also collected and processed for new materials.”

According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed 2.76 million more Indonesians into poverty, bringing the country’s poverty rate to the highest level since March 2017. Due to job loss and business closure, there are 27.5 million people living below the poverty line as of September 2020. This is up significantly from 24.8 million a year earlier.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Indonesia – Turning Plastic Bottle Wastes into a Blessing

Salesian Missions

World Bank – Indonesia

The post INDONESIA: Salesians protect ocean through recycling project first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Caritas Don Bosco School, located in Santa Rosa, Philippines, celebrated the Christmas season with outreach projects and home-made gifts. Almost everyone at the school participated. Teachers and school employees took part in the annual Christmas outreach challenge, while students prepared messages in hand-crafted cards and gifts.

Groups from the educative pastoral council came together to bring joy to marginalized youth and Indigenous people. Outreach activities were planned to support the local community, along with helping to support others within the school. During the school Christmas party, individuals who participated in the challenge showed videos of their projects and shared reflections from what they learned. One teacher noted that it was not difficult to reach out and it is good to be the source of joy for others.

The parent-teacher council also conducted Christmas outreach activities within the school community and in the local surrounding community. Within the school, the council supported security guards and non-teaching employees and provided gifts to poor communities.

Students got involved with outreach activities as well. Student leaders and alumni organized a Christmas fellowship for marginalized youth and provided items that met their basic needs. The Voces Inspirare School Choir and robotics team collaborated for a light and choral show to benefit the school’s Batholomew Garelli Project, an education fund for poor senior high school students.

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80 percent of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – What Christmas Means at “Caritas Don Bosco School” in Santa Rosa

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Students and teachers take part in outreach first appeared on MissionNewswire.

VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Xuan Hiep Parish in Vietnam held a Christmas Fair for the 700 poor students attending parish school and oratory as well as children from the Salesian Bac Ha Parish. Several Salesians also attended the event including Father Joseph Le Ngoc Anh, rector of Philip Rinaldi Xuan Hiep Theological community, Father Peter Tran Anh Tu, in charge of Don Bosco Xuan Hiep School, and Father Daminh Tran Quang Hien, in charge of the vocational group of aspirants.

The fair began with a blessing from Fr. Le Ngoc Anh. He also told the children to have fun and to remember the reason for Christmas. The children were then able to enjoy the fair which included games, gifts and food.

One Salesian said, “Children left the fair happy and with meaningful gifts that they themselves exchanged for winning the games. There were many wishes of good cheer that all enjoyed a Christmas season filled with joy and peace.”

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Vietnam – Don Bosco Xuan Hiep: Christmas Fair 2022 for disadvantaged students

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

The post VIETNAM: Students in need enjoy fair first appeared on MissionNewswire.

VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Close to 5,000 people with physical disabilities attended a special gathering to celebrate Christmas at the Divine Mercy Center at the An Lac parish in the Vu Thu district of Vietnam. The participants were served by nearly 1,000 volunteers including college students.

Salesian Bishop Peter Nguyen Van De, emeritus of Thai Binh, started the annual gathering 21 years ago as a professor in the seminary after he ended his Vietnam provincial term in 1996. He believes the event is an opportunity for people with disabilities to interact with one another, take part in recreational and cultural activities, and experience the real love and joy of Christmas.

Bishop Van De said, “Christmas is for all people including people with disabilities as they are also children of God and they should be respected and treated humanely. They set a shining example of how to show solidarity with others.” Bishop Van De was deeply moved by an older man who collected 3 million Vietnamese dong (U.S. $125) from other people with disabilities and offered to support this event, which costs 3 billion dong (U.S. $125,000) and is sponsored by many benefactors.

During the gathering, participants listened to talks about church and marriage, had medical check-ups and received medicine, played traditional games for gifts, watched cultural performances, enjoyed meals, and attended a Mass. Among the Christmas gifts given were also many new wheelchairs.

Nhan, a 34-year-old woman who has complete paralysis, was taken to the center on a special bed by a relative. She has attended this annual event seven times. She said, “I am delighted to attend the gathering where I feel loved and respected, meet other people who have similar conditions, and relax with leisure activities.”

Also in attendance was Linh, who said this was the first time he had gone to a Christmas gathering, which inspired him to overcome his physical condition and enjoy life to the fullest. One of his friends invited him to join this Christmas event.

Bishop Van De, age 76, stepped down as bishop of Thai Binh last October due to his age. He said he will continue to hold these gatherings in the future.

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Vietnam – Christmas is for all people: an initiative by Bishop Peter De, SDB, Thai Binh bishop emeritus, spreads joy among disabled people

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

The post VIETNAM: People with physical disabilities attend gathering first appeared on MissionNewswire.

THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been responding with food support for those impacted by devastating flooding in Thailand. The flooding, which started in the beginning of September and ran through the middle of October, was caused by heavy rain and tropical storms. The flooding hit 59 of Thailand’s 77 provinces and impacted more than 450,000 homes as well as damaging agricultural land in key farming regions.

The Salesian Society of Thailand, led by Father Ekasit Talhakultorn, in collaboration with former Salesian seminarians, representatives of ADMA, and a team of youth volunteers, handed out survival food packages to more than 100 families in Rangsit, the Immaculate Conception Church community, and other locations. These areas have been emerged in deep water and people have had to retreat to the second level of their houses.

The survival food packages were put together by former Salesian students as one step in helping to mitigate some of the suffering the flooding has caused.

“Salesian missionaries live among the communities in which they work and are perfectly positioned to provide humanitarian aid and emergency relief supplies in times of emergency,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians will be there now to help during the flooding and there long after helping families to have their basic needs met and help them rebuild their homes and livelihoods.”

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent in 2018, according to the World Bank. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. Close to 43,000 more people are classified in the country as poor according to the recent report. That brings the total to 1.03 million people in this target group.

Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Thailand – Helping the Flood Victims

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

The Nation Thailand – Poverty Rates

World Bank – Thailand

The post THAILAND: Families receive food after flooding first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Fifteen young women who are freshmen students at Don Bosco College, located in Canlubang, Philippines, have been awarded scholarships that will allow them to pursue their dreams of becoming skilled electrical technicians thanks to The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) through One Meralco Foundation (OMF), according to a recent Malaya Business Insight article.

Each scholarship will cover tuition fees and allowances for students in the dual NC II program in electrical installation and maintenance and mechatronics. The scholarship program also provides a four-month on-the-job training for the students, who will be given the opportunity to join the Meralco workforce afterwards, according to the article.

The article further noted that this initiative falls under Meralco’s Gender Diversity and Inclusion Program called MBrace that aims to provide inclusive opportunities to empower women and increase the ratio of women in the company to 40 percent by 2030.

“Don Bosco College provides education for youth from poor backgrounds,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Youth are able to gain an education from primary school all the way through technical and vocational skills training. Salesians work to ensure that girls and young women are able to access the same education that boys and young men are able to access.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80 percent of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco College

Malaya Business Insight – 15 aspiring women technicians receive Meralco scholarship

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Young women awarded electrical technician scholarships first appeared on MissionNewswire.

THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian-run St. Dominic Savio School in Bangkok, Thailand, recently celebrated its 60th anniversary of its foundation. To mark the occasion, Cardinal Francis Xavier Kriengsak Kovithavanij, archbishop of Bangkok, presided over a solemn Mass, with Msgr. Joseph Prathan Sridarunsil, bishop of Surat Thani, and Msgr. Silvio Siripong Charatsri, bishop of Chanthaburi. Salesian missionaries and representatives of Salesian groups in Thailand also participated.

As part of the festivities, a theatrical performance of “A Moment to Remember: Once Upon a Time in the Heart” was held to convey the values of St. John Bosco and the Salesian education. Other activities included a short performance of the school’s history, tributes to supporters and benefactors of the educational center, and an afternoon basketball tournament.

“Salesians primarily focus on ensuring that poor youth have an opportunity to gain an education,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Education along with social programs in Thailand give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future.”

One of the best known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Its education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent in 2018, according to the World Bank. The COVID-19 pandemic, however, caused a sharp rise in the country’s “targeted poor” (those who hold state-issued welfare cards) as noted by the Thai People Map and Analytics Platform. Close to 43,000 more people are classified in the country as poor according to the recent report. That brings the total to 1.03 million people in this target group.

Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty before the pandemic, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Thailand – “St. Dominic Savio” school in Bangkok celebrates its 60th anniversary

Salesian Missions – Thailand

Salesian Thailand

St. Dominic Savio School

The Nation Thailand – Poverty Rates

World Bank – Thailand

The post THAILAND: School celebrates 60th anniversary first appeared on MissionNewswire.

VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Vietnam were able to assist more than 3,000 families with much-needed food essentials such as rice, noodles, cooking oil, sauces and milk thanks to the Australian Salesian Missions Overseas Aid Fund. The people receiving food aid live in remote areas and face many economic difficulties including unemployment.

Many seniors in the region live in dilapidated houses and are faced with poverty and medical conditions. With the funding, individuals received wheelchairs and walkers, cataract operations, and heart disease treatment. One patient was supplied with prosthetic legs.

Funding has also provided clean drinking water, and five homes were provided for very poor families. In addition, funding supported 250 scholarships. Many youth in the region are not able to go to school because their families cannot afford the school fees.

In the Diocese of Dalat, a typhoon destroyed walls and roofs of several structures. After 12 months, repair work was completed with the help of donor funding. The support given to these essential relief projects is much appreciated by those in Vietnam.

“Many poor families in Vietnam don’t have even their most basic needs met,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “While Salesians are primarily focused on education, they also provide feeding programs, offer scholarships, and help to meet needs like shelter and medical support.”

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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Sources:

Photo courtesy of the Australian Salesian Missions Overseas Aid Fund

Australian Salesian Missions Overseas Aid Fund

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

The post VIETNAM: Families receive food, medical and other support first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Youth Movement, within the Salesian Southern Philippines Province, organized a summer camp inspired by the teachings of Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

The theme of the camp, “Salesian Youth Eco-Warriors: be the change!”, challenged youth to focus on their own environmental initiatives within their communities. The event was held at the Don Bosco Peace House in Mantalongon and was attended by youth from the districts of Cebu, Negros and Davao.

“Salesian missionaries around the globe have been launching environmental and sustainable projects,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “It’s important for youth to understand their environmental impact and the ways that they, their schools, families, and communities can work together to make improvements and focus on greater environmental change.”

Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80 percent of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are Indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty.

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Sources:

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – A summer camp inspired by teachings of “Laudato Sì”

Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Youth take on environmental challenges first appeared on MissionNewswire.

CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Youth attending Salesian educational programs supported by the Don Bosco Foundation of Cambodia had access to proper nutrition in 2021 thanks to a partnership between Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, and Feed My Starving Children, a nonprofit Christian organization committed to “feeding God’s children hungry in body and spirit.” Don Bosco Foundation received 1,200 boxes of rice-meals that sustained the food program for nearly 400 children and older youth.

Don Bosco schools are providing primary, secondary and technical education for poor youth. Those in technical training are studying subjects including electrical, mechanics, welding, automotive, electronics, computer and information technology, printing, media communication, hospitality, and tourism. After students graduate, they are qualified for jobs that offer a decent salary, allowing them to support themselves and their families and break the cycle of poverty.

Don Bosco Foundation in Cambodia received 1,200 boxes of rice meals thanks to a Feed My Starving Children donation.

“Salesian students in Cambodia are grateful for the nutritional support provided by Feed My Starving Children,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Youth who received healthy nutrition are able to concentrate in school and focus on their studies. The food program helps to ensure that students have a baseline of good nutrition while they are in school.”

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambodia was a world leader in economic growth and poverty reduction. It sustained an average growth rate of 7.7 percent between 1995 and 2019, and graduated to a lower middle-income economy in 2015, according to the World Bank. The government has implemented policies to mitigate the negative impact of COVID-19 on businesses and people’s incomes and to support economic recovery. Still, the poverty rate rose to 17 percent as a result of the pandemic.

While Cambodia achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving poverty in 2009, the vast majority of families who escaped poverty were only able to do so by a small margin. Around 4.5 million people remain near-poor, vulnerable to falling back into poverty when exposed to economic and other external challenges.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco Cambodia

Feed My Starving Children

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) More than 300 students are gaining skills for employment at Don Bosco Training Center Mati in Mati City within the Davao Oriental province on Mindanao, the second largest island in the Philippines. Don Bosco Mati, as it’s known, opened in 2019, and the center’s agriculture and technical skills training courses are well known in Mindanao.

Father Joriz Calsa, who started at Don Bosco Mati in 2021, said, “We are glad that the training center continued its operation even amidst the pandemic with almost 300 students, thanks to our humble boarding houses and the continuous support through scholarships from government institutions. This year we even managed to send around 30 students for on-the-job training, and I have witnessed companies coming over to look for our graduates for job openings.”

Don Bosco Mati has acquired a star rating from the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for its welding course and received a three-year approval as a “donee” institution from the Philippine Council for NGO Certification, which means the school can take donations from partner industries.

The latest project, a chapel on the Don Bosco Mati grounds, will be completed this year, so the school will be able to celebrate Catholic Mass with its students. Formation for the various ministries in the parish has also continued. This year, Salesians made a point of making the sacraments more accessible to the poor by offering them more frequently even in their own villages.

More than one-quarter of the population of the Philippines lives in poverty, according to UNICEF. Poverty is most severe and widespread in rural areas where 80 percent of the population — close to 88 million people — make their home. The poorest Filipinos are indigenous populations, small-scale farmers who cultivate land received through agrarian reform, landless workers and fishermen. In addition, poverty rates are higher for women than men.

Illiteracy and high levels of unemployment contribute to the elevated poverty rate. With more than 11 million out-of-school youth in the country and dropout rates doubling as children reach secondary school, access to education becomes a critical step in breaking the cycle of poverty. Throughout the Philippines, Salesian missionaries offer a variety of educational and social development programs for youth, many with an emphasis on recreation and sports activities. The goal is to provide the opportunities necessary to gain an education and skills training to break the cycle of poverty and retain long-term employment.

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ANS – Philippines – Don Bosco “mother-house” in Mindanao: all about growth

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UNICEF – Philippines

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Ben Cat Youth Center, located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, launched its summer 2022 basketball tournament in May. This tournament brings together 38 teams and more than 300 young players who show off their skills during the competition. Salesian schools and youth centers value sports education to help youth on and off the playing field.

“Sports programs are important for social integration and the promotion of values like teamwork, communication, respect, and team spirit,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Learning and playing team sports encourage leadership skills as well as teach youth to work as part of a team. Students also learn important social skills and have opportunities for growth and maturity.”

Salesian schools, services and programs throughout Vietnam are helping to break the cycle of poverty while giving many young people hope for a more positive and productive future. Salesian vocational and technical schools equip students with the skills they need to compete in the local labor market by offering courses that lead to employment in construction, hotel management, electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, and other fields. Many Salesian students are school dropouts seeking a second chance.

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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ANS – Vietnam – Over 300 young players participate in “Don Bosco Ben Cat” Youth Center Basketball Tournament

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have operated the Don Bosco Training Center in San Jose, Philippines, since 1995. An organic agricultural production course was launched three years ago in response to the government’s call to augment the food production industry.

The Salesian diocese of San Jose is in a region which is known as the country’s rice granary. Rice is the staple food in the Philippines, and 80 percent of the population are farmers. The most recent course helps protect the environment through sustainable organic farming.

“Providing education to help youth and local farmers cultivate the land helps to make their farms more productive and show that farming can be a reliable source of income,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Missionaries provide education and workforce development paired with other social services to help poor youth break the cycle of poverty and have hope for the future. This also helps their families and communities.”

Don Bosco Training Center is not the only farming education that Salesians provide in the region. In the mid-1980s, Salesian Bishop Leo Drona founded the Gratia Plena Social Action Center to help the poor farming population after a destructive typhoon. It considers organic agriculture as a strategic response to environmental issues by promoting sustainable farming methods.

Through the Gratia Plena Social Services Center, Salesians support and guide farmers to acquire skills and the know-how to boost the local economy. The center also works in partnership with small-scale farmers, cooperatives, and development practitioners who believe in organic practices of producing food for life, health, and the environment. Salesians are exploring possibilities for the Don Bosco Training Center to work in closer collaboration with Gratia Plena Social Services Center.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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ANS – Philippines – Organic Agricultural Production a way to protect the environment

Don Bosco TVET Centers

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Calauan, located in Calauan, Philippines, has a feeding program that distributes more than 7,000 meals each day. Currently, 3,500 children and adults receive daily rice porridge for breakfast and then rice with a side dish for lunch. Every six months the recipient list is updated, and each recipient is evaluated to see who still needs to be part of the feeding program. Some names are removed and new ones are added.

Don Bosco Calauan is located among a densely populated community that is mostly relocated families who are among the poorest and most disenfranchised. When the government moved these families to Calauan, they left their source of income in Manila. People engage in informal activities or trades to earn a living. Many children are malnourished and families still struggle to survive due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2010, Salesian missionaries launched skills training programs to help people learn trades and develop the skills for employment. The feeding program was also launched and remained strong even during the pandemic. Father Ferdinand Camilo is among the 25 volunteers who serve as cooks and helpers in food preparation. Brother Ronnel Tiu oversees the distribution of meals, which are made possible thanks to partnerships, foundations and individual donors.

“Children cannot focus on their education and people cannot do well at work on an empty stomach,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “The contributions of donors and partners allow Salesian missionaries on the ground to expand their efforts to reach families who desperately need our help, especially as the pandemic pushed some families further into poverty.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines — working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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ANS – Philippines – Feeding thousands of people is a daily Salesian miracle in Calauan

Don Bosco Calauan

Salesian Missions – Philippines

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Students from the St. Anne Orphanage were granted scholarships to attend Don Bosco Vithayalai in Battambang, Cambodia, thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The scholarships were provided in February 2022 and May 2021.

Children attending Salesian schools in Cambodia have faced a number of issues including abandonment from their families, abuse, child labor and trafficking, and migration. As a result, they often miss school and fall behind academically. Salesian schools ensure that young students are able to attend school even if they are unable to pay for it.

“Don Bosco schools are important for poor students to gain an education for later skills training,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Not only is education about learning to read and write, it provides a foundation for a career and a secure livelihood. Salesian educational programs bring new hope for Cambodian students and their families.”

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cambodia was a world leader in economic growth and poverty reduction. It sustained an average growth rate of 7.7 percent between 1995 and 2019, and graduated to a lower middle-income economy in 2015, according to the World Bank. The government has implemented policies to mitigate the negative impact of COVID-19 on businesses and people’s incomes and to support economic recovery. Still, the poverty rate rose to 17 percent as a result of the pandemic.

While Cambodia achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving poverty in 2009, the vast majority of families who escaped poverty were only able to do so by a small margin. Around 4.5 million people remain near-poor, vulnerable to falling back into poverty when exposed to economic and other external challenges.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco Cambodia

Salesian Missions – Cambodia

World Bank – Cambodia

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Villages in Vietnam have clean water access thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The projects, part of the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative,” provided water purification systems and water tanks for the Hoa An Parish in Bac Giang, the Khop village and Thanh Binh Parish in Kon Tum, and the Tac Van Oratory in Tac Van.

The Hoa An Parish has a supply of fresh water for more than 1,000 people. The new water system will also ensure clean water for the 100 children at the Salesian oratory and 20 boarders from the boarding school. Around the parish, there are many poor households with workers staying in rental houses. Ngo Thi Man, a factory worker, is benefiting from this project. With the money she saves on water, she can spend her salary on other basic needs and help support her family back home.

In Kon Tum, more than 1,147 people are benefiting from the water supply in the Khop village where there are poor families working as farmers. Mr. Rhađê, a farmer employed part-time to protect the forest, draws potable water for his family instead of having to get it from streams which are unsafe. He is supplying fresh water to his family and the crops while saving money that he once spent on water containers. There are also 2,700 people benefiting in the Thanh Binh Parish.

At the Tac Van Oratory, there are 500 people in the local parish and 80 boys at the oratory who are benefiting from this new water supply. Around the community there are many poor families who make their living by fishing. Tran Van Ngoc, a fisherman, has an unstable income and is able to draw water for free instead of purchasing water canisters to provide clean water for his family.

“From safe drinking water and healthy sanitation to agriculture, water is essential for life,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Water projects in Vietnam and around the globe ensure people coming to Salesian parishes, schools and centers have access to the water they need. This brings a sense of hope and dignity to the people Salesians serve.”

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco technical and vocational training centers in southern Philippines received support for online teaching and learning for more than 500 trainees thanks in part to funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The project received matching funding from Don Bosco Mondo in Germany through the German Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The “Interventions to Support Technical-Vocational Education and Training (TVET) in the New Normal” project, which launched in August 2020, involved 48 instructors from eight Don Bosco technical and vocational training centers located in Cebu, Negros, Iloilo, Eastern Samar in the Visayas Islands and Davao in the Mindanao Islands.

The COVID-19 pandemic caused upheaval in the educational system and left students and teachers scrambling to figure out how to continue their educational objectives. Educational institutions began using online instruction and blended learning environments with a mix of face-to-face instruction, when possible.

To do this effectively, Don Bosco technical and vocational centers needed support to be able to provide online education. Funding for this project provided for the setup of recording rooms in eight centers, digital production materials, and a trainee’s package including a flash drive, printed modules, two washable face masks and one face shield.

Further, the project provided funding for a rent-to-own tablet for trainees who didn’t have their own device, as well as a food and accommodation subsidy to trainees who were boarders during face-to-face classes. Instructors were provided rent-to-own laptops, and the centers provided a monthly internet incentive so the instructors could facilitate online teaching, activities, and follow-ups.

“Teachers are the backbone of the Salesian educational system and had to quickly modify how they provide education during the pandemic—not an easy feat for many Salesian teachers,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Salesian teachers face many challenges educating poor youth, and the pandemic has only exacerbated these challenges. This project enabled Salesian teachers to meet these challenges head-on, providing youth education and hope for a brighter future.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco TVET Centers

Salesian Missions – Philippines

World Bank – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Technical training centers supported first appeared on MissionNewswire.

(MissionNewswire) Bosco Eco Enzyme, an initiative of Salesians in Jakarta, Indonesia, has been calling on community members to ferment organic kitchen waste to improve air and water quality. Liquid from the fermentation of organic waste mixed with molasses or various sugars can also be used as a natural household cleanser or for wound treatment. The process of fermenting the organic waste into the useful enzymes takes about three months.

Salesian missionaries are working to improve the water quality of an 11-hectare lake located on the parish grounds by pouring the liquid, known as Eco Enzyme, into the water. Every week, Salesians with the parish collaborate with several “Eco Enzyme communities” and the local government to pour 66 gallons (250 liters) of Eco Enzyme into the lake. They continue to examine the water for improvements as the project continues.

“This sure is a big project and commitment. But we hope that by pouring our heart and works into this joint project, which serves as a concrete manifestation of ecological conversion, it will bring blessings to the earth and to us—humans who inhabit it,” said Father André Delimarta, a Salesian from Indonesia.

The initial Bosco Eco Enzyme project was launched two years ago when Salesian missionaries encouraged community members to begin fermenting waste. They conducted webinars and lectures about making Eco Enzyme and its benefits. Over the course of the project, the community has used Eco Enzyme to purify water and air in places affected by natural disasters such as the 2021 earthquake in Samarinda.

Everyone has been invited to take part in this project. The community has not only become a driving force in helping to improve local water and air but also a place of welcoming non-Catholics and helping them feel connected to a project for the common good.

According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed 2.76 million more Indonesians into poverty, bringing the country’s poverty rate to the highest level since March 2017. Due to job loss and business closure, there are 27.5 million people living below the poverty line as of September 2020. This is up significantly from 24.8 million a year earlier.

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ANS – Indonesia – Eco-enzyme to improve the river water

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World Bank – Indonesia

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire)  Don Bosco My Thuan Center, located in Vinh Long, Vietnam, organized a sports festival to celebrate spring 2022. The event, titled “Spring of love – Spring of gratitude,” was attended by 265 students from the technical school who competed in nine sports.

Salesian missionaries see value in sports education and programming. Sports programs teach youth both on and off the field. Learning and playing team sports encourage leadership skills as well as teach youth to work as part of a team. Students also learn important social skills and have opportunities for growth and maturity.

Salesian schools, services and programs throughout Vietnam are helping to break the cycle of poverty while giving many young people hope for a more positive and productive future. Salesian vocational and technical schools equip students with the skills they need to compete in the local labor market by offering courses that lead to employment in construction, hotel management, electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, and other fields. Many Salesian students are school dropouts seeking a second chance.

“Salesian education responds to market demand, ensuring that youth have access to the education that will help them find employment,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Students in these programs have a real opportunity to enter the workforce prepared both in terms of the skills they have learned and in their social development, ensuring a lifelong ability to retain livable wage employment.”

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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ANS – Vietnam – Sports Festival at Don Bosco My Thuan center

Salesian Missions – Vietnam

World Bank – Vietnam

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries continue their work helping families in Cebu, Philippines, who have been impacted by Typhoon Rai, which hit the region with winds of 121 miles per hour before making landfall on Dec. 16. According to the National Council for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, the effects of the typhoon impacted more than 1.8 million people including killing 407 and injuring 1,147.

Father Fidel Orendain, provincial of the Southern Philippines, said, “On my first visit to one of our schools badly hit by the super typhoon, very strong emotions flooded me. A pall of uncertainty and desperation gripped me over the grave destruction all over the campus. Now, several weeks and visits later, the situation has changed little and slowly.”

In one of his last visits Fr. Orendain was able to observe the difficulties for Salesian teachers during this challenging time. “Since face-to-face lessons were banned in schools for almost two years, teachers are required to come to the campus to print lessons in module packs so parents could pick them up for their kids to work on. Faculty members line up to use the printers that survived getting wet or being blown away by the typhoon. Half of their concern is focused on making and printing lessons. The other half is to rush back home to repair their houses.”

Fr. Orendain reported that a little over one-third of the teachers and staff of the Salesian educational center in Cebu had their roofs blown away. They were also concerned about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and remaining safe.

Salesians have been working tirelessly to help those most in need. On Jan. 29, Father Godofredo Atienza, former provincial and current head of the Salesian Family Secretariat, represented Fr. Orendain on a visit to families residing on the group of islands of Olango. He noted, “Many of the houses in Olango have yet to be rebuilt and the electricity has yet to be restored. These families truly suffer, whether it is dry or it is raining, because most of their homes were totally flattened.”

Just reaching these families was challenging, requiring a journey first by car and then by boat. The Salesian team is committed to bringing the aid that has been made available by the generous support of Misean Cara, the Salesian Irish Province development office.

Salesian missionaries live in the communities in which they work and are continuing to assess damage and provide what they can to help support their local communities after this devastating storm.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – Solidarity and resilience to recover from Rai/Odette devastation

Salesian Missions – Philippines

World Bank – Philippines

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Formation Center in Lawaan, Philippines, was impacted by Typhoon Rai, which hit the region with winds of 121 miles per hour before making landfall on Dec. 16. According to the National Council for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, the effects of the typhoon impacted more than 1.8 million people including killing 407 and injuring 1,147.

Once safe after the typhoon, Salesians, aspirants, youth from the Don Bosco Youth Center and lay mission partners worked to restore the damaged building. Water was restored and electricity was provided with a generator. The Don Bosco Youth Center was also able to reach out and help neighboring communities by providing clean water and a charging station for free. The Salesian community also received donated goods and was able to distribute them to people who had been impacted.

With the assistance of Father Chito Dimaranan, the Don Bosco Formation Center was also able to reach out to people on Bohol Island, which had been impacted by the storm. Relief supplies including water and filtering systems were provided to families and the broader community.

In addition, the garden at Mary Help of Christians was transformed to a public open space where people could relax and celebrate the Christmas season despite all the pain and suffering.

“Salesian missionaries live in the communities in which they work and were able to quickly assess the damage and provide what they could to help support their local communities after this devastating storm,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesians in the community will continue to assess what families might need and will be there helping local communities.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – Don Bosco Formation Center Becomes a Bearer of Hope After Typhoon Odette

Salesian Missions – Philippines

World Bank – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Salesians help local community after Typhoon Rai first appeared on MissionNewswire.

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been helping families in Cebu, Philippines, who have been impacted by Typhoon Rai, which hit the region with winds of 121 miles per hour before making landfall on Dec. 16. According to the National Council for Disaster Risk Management and Reduction, the effects of the typhoon impacted more than 1.8 million people including killing 407 and injuring 1,147.

With international support, including that from the Salesian Mission Office in Australia, Salesian staff and volunteers have been working tirelessly to meet basic needs of hundreds of people who have lost everything and who need assistance, food, clean water, clothing, and temporary shelter.

Before the typhoon, Salesians were helping victims of a local fire. More than 50 homes burned to the ground, and the families were then faced with the typhoon’s devastation. One family had built a makeshift shelter after the fire only to be told to find new shelter because of the typhoon. When the wind and rain subsided, they walked through mud, garbage, and debris back to their home to realize they had lost what was left of their belongings.

Reggie, a volunteer who finds funds to educate poor children in the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Cebu City, tried her best to help these families. Jan Odivilas, from the Southern Philippine Social Communications Office, said, “Reggie was tired and her hair was unkempt when I sat down with her yesterday. But her face lit up when I told her I was hoping she could help organize a rescue operation.”

Odivilas added, “I gave Reggie the donations we collected. Around noon today, she called to tell me that she had bought all the non-perishable products and was with an army of volunteers filling 700 relief bags. She was already up at four in the morning. The rest of the day will be long. This isn’t her first rescue this month. And she knows very well that in the weeks to come there is a good chance that she will fill even more bags.”

Salesian missionaries live in the communities in which they work and are providing what they can to help support their local communities after this devastating storm.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. There are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Poverty rose sharply in the Philippines due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the World Bank, close to 4 million people became poor in the first half of 2021 due to pandemic-induced lockdown measures that dried up jobs and reduced domestic demand. Poverty incidence in the Philippines rose to 23.7 percent from 21.1 percent, indicating 3.9 million more people are living in poverty now than in 2018 when the statistics were last verified.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Philippines – Salesian solidarity brings help and hope to the needy

Salesian Missions – Philippines

World Bank – Philippines

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(MissionNewswire) For the last four years, Salesian missionaries in Vientiane, Laos, have been distributing meals and gifts on Christmas Day to poor people who live in the waste dump on the city’s outskirts. Most recently, it was a collaborative effort of Salesian missionaries and sisters, along with staff and students from the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center.

The Don Bosco Vocational Training Center has been recognized by the Laotian Youth Union Department. In 2008, the collaboration with the Laotian Youth Union was ratified by a contract for five years, renewable every five years.

Currently, the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center educates about 150 students each year who come from every province in the country and who are mostly poor. According to the contract, the Laotian Youth Union, together with Salesian missionaries, selects the students who will attend. Priority is given to those living in challenging economic situations and those with insufficient school preparation, such as having dropped out of school just after elementary school. Students are selected after completing a written test and an interview.

“Once admitted to the center, youth are able to choose from a wide range of courses, all aimed at helping them gain professional skills,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Courses for mechanics and electricians last one year and accommodate about 40 students per discipline. Courses on welding and motorcycle repair last six months. This education enables youth to find employment soon after graduation.”

The Don Bosco Vocational Training Center is a vital resource for the poorest families in Laos. Government agencies and local authorities often express their appreciation for the center. According to data from the Laotian Youth Union Department, about 75 percent of the boys who completed their studies there have found work.

Poverty in Laos, formally known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, has been on the decline for the last decade, according to the World Bank. Despite improvements in the economy, the poverty rate in Laos is at 18.6 percent. Poverty in Laos tends to be higher in underdeveloped, mountainous areas of the country. People who live in these isolated areas are often left without access to electricity, schools and even roads.

Many of the ethnic minorities in Laos live in underserved, rural areas. These minority groups are further isolated by barriers in language, customs and religion. This, combined with geographic isolation, contributes to a higher rate of poverty for those who live in rural communities.

The economy in Laos has been rapidly growing. The growth can be attributed to the fact that Laos is home to a bounty of natural resources including water, minerals and forests. Additionally, construction and services have expanded and contributed to an increase in tourism and foreign investment.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical College in Cebu City, Philippines, suffered severe damage from Typhoon Rai, which hit the region with winds of 121 miles per hour before making landfall on Dec. 16. The typhoon has killed more than 370 and displaced hundreds of thousands of people, damaged homes, and toppled power and communication lines.

“After visiting the city by bicycle, I found that Don Bosco Technical College was the most damaged among the Salesian houses,” explained Father Keith Amodia, delegate for social communication of the Salesian FIS Province. “Our youth center in Pasil, which was close to the sea, also suffered damage from the wind and waves. The structural integrity of the perimeter fence has already been compromised and the whole thing is starting to lean to one side. Should it yield, the Salesians will be exposed to the river and the sea with the risk of also being pillaged.”

Many people are without electricity, and internet access is scarce as power lines have been damaged. Many families have lost their homes, especially those built with lightweight materials. There are also problems with drinking water, as the water district has suspended the supply. The government is using fire trucks to deliver water to communities.

Fr. Amodia added, “Our school has a generator, but it will only last until 8 p.m. and therefore we will spend the night in the dark. It is interesting to note that the direct internet line we are using for the online lessons of the school still works, but it will only last as long as there is electricity. Please pray for us. Many families here are suffering from being exposed to the elements. People are flocking to gas stations and hardware stores. The Cebuans, however, are hardy people. For generations, the Cebuans have lived with this climate, only now the storms are stronger due to climate change.”

Salesian missionaries live in the communities in which they work and are assessing the damage and providing what they can to help support their local communities after this devastating storm.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Father Antonio “Beng-Beng” Molavin, rector of the Salesian St. Ildefonso Parish in Makati, Philippines, has launched initiatives to help the parish population focus on removing plastics from the environment by working with Plastic Bank, a nongovernmental organization focused on recycling plastics. Rather than eliminating plastic, Plastic Bank aims to teach how to manage it.

Parish members are involved in projects to clean up their local community and to recycle plastics found, as well as items used in their homes. Youth in the Salesian oratory are also reusing plastic items rather than throwing them into the trash.

St. Ildefonso Parish was chosen by the Ecological Ministry of the Archdiocese of Manila to be the first parish in the Philippines to collaborate with Plastic Bank. Fr. Molavin explained, “If we take the problem of plastic pollution seriously and try to offer an effective solution, we would have solved a great ecological problem.”

The project is in response to the call from Pope Francis in his 2020 Laudato Si, which has as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.” Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth foster environmental responsibility.

“We brought the project first to our local Christian community, which has adopted the recovery of plastic as their main project during the pandemic,” said Fr. Molavin. “After educating about the topics, we started going house to house and instructed families to wash the plastic with soap so that it can be reused. Then we go around picking up the plastic, making sure it’s clean and dry.”

Over the next five years, the parish would like to create a network of 500 families who will work together to find a solution to the plastic problem. It is also hoped that S.t Ildefonso Parish will become an accredited Laudato Si Parish within five years. In addition to recycling, a gardening project was launched, trees have been planted and segregation of waste has started.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in Vietnam have been working to address the increasing needs of people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The resulting crisis of rising numbers of infected people has taken its toll on the country as the government has initiated more lockdowns to cities and urged residents to remain indoors to prevent the ongoing spread of the virus.

In Ho Chi Minh City, immigrant workers from other cities and provinces cannot go to work in the factories or companies due to the pandemic. They have no money to pay for food, rent and daily expenses. Many of them have tried to return to their areas of origin by motorbike, despite the distance from Ho Chi Minh City, while others have tried to continue living in the city, but the situation has become increasingly difficult.

Salesian missionaries have been responding with a number of initiatives. In Tam Hai, Salesians have helped poor families with food rations and direct financial assistance. In Xuan Hiep, Salesians have provided clean water and food for families in isolation. Salesians have also focused on migrant populations and provided food rations and direct financial payments in Tan Cang.

A Salesian home for orphans in the St. Joseph Parish on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City shared rice, sugar and oil with local families in need. The Salesian home for children is poor and has few resources but shared what it could, while the Salesian Vocational Training Center in Dong Thuan donated $850 to help poor families in the region. Salesians also run agriculture programs and farms and have distributed vegetables and fruit with families in need living in communities in Dalat, K’Long and Tan Ha.

“Migrant workers and those relying on daily wage work have struggled financially during the lockdowns in Vietnam and in countries around the globe,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Instead of being able to make just enough to support themselves, all sources of revenue have been cut off. People are left with no food or ability to pay rent and other expenses. Salesians in these communities have been a critical resource making sure that people have shelter and enough food to eat.”

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) In the fight against COVID-19, graduates of the Salesian-run Nonthaburi Skills Development Center for the Blind have pooled their resources to help current students who have been impacted. “Funds From the Blind to Fight COVID-19” is providing funding for medical care for those who have visual impairments and are positive for the virus. Funding is also supporting delivery of food packages to those in need in isolation.

Thailand, like many countries, is experiencing a surge of COVID-19 cases from the delta variant, which is roughly 70 percent of cases being diagnosed. Since the beginning of August, statistics are showing that more than 20,000 people a day are entering into the hospital system with COVID-19. The country’s vaccination program has been proceeding at a slow pace, and there are currently not enough vaccinations for every person.

The government has imposed new guidelines to help slow the spread, including a daily curfew.  Schools have been teaching online for the past three months and it’s expected that this new school year will also be online. One of the groups most challenged is those who are visually impaired. While some people have received help from the local government, others have struggled without assistance.

The funding initiative was launched by Father Charles Velardo, chairperson of past graduates of the Salesian school. The Thailand Salesian Social Communication Office stated, “At this time in the COVID-19 crisis, kindness of people in the society is spreading faster than the virus. Even though there are various ways of helping and varying amounts of help extended, the central point of great importance is the mutual sharing.”

The Nonthaburi Skills Development Center for the Blind trains 40 students with visual impairments each year. Students attend intensive two-year educational programs. When the program first started, students were taught trade skills in carpentry and woodworking. Some students were able to find work, but many others were denied employment because local employers feared workplace injuries and were put off by the higher costs of insuring visually impaired employees.

As a result, the program changed focus and in 1983 began training its students to be massage therapists. As an acknowledgement of the high-quality training offered and the program’s years of success, the Ministry of Public Health began to license graduates as doctors of Thai traditional massage. Most graduates are able to find work immediately and continue to hone their skills for many years. Through the program, the therapists-in-training see more than 150 clients each day.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. One of the best known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Its education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco, has provided 17 poor students with school fees and boarding in Ia Krel, in the Gia Lai province of Vietnam. Remaining funds are being used for children’s activities in the village of Pnuk.

The students live at three boarding houses run by Sister of St. Paul and Sister of the Holy Cross. The donor funding is ensuring that each child is able to attend school and have a safe place to live. Children also have access to tutoring classes in math and the Vietnamese language, lunch, toys, and games.

Rolan H’Tieu is one of the children who benefited from the donation. She is in the first grade and lives with her sister. H’Tieu has been a part of the Salesian summer class and enjoys the friendships with her peers that she has developed. Through the funding, she is now boarding at Sister of St. Paul and enrolled in elementary school.

“We are grateful to our donors who provide funding so young children living in poverty have an opportunity to gain an education,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Students gain an education and then can advance on to skills training. Then they have a real opportunity to enter the workforce prepared both in terms of the skills they have learned and in their social development, ensuring a lifelong ability to retain livable wage employment.”

Rolan H’Tieu is one of the children who benefited from the donation in Vietnam.

Salesian schools, services and programs throughout Vietnam are helping to break the cycle of poverty while giving many young people hope for a more positive and productive future. Salesian vocational and technical schools equip students with the skills they need to compete in the local labor market by offering courses that lead to employment in construction, hotel management, electrical and mechanical engineering, computer science, and other fields. Many Salesian students are school dropouts seeking a second chance.

According to the World Bank, Vietnam has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years, when the poverty rate was close to 70 percent. Today, poverty stands closer to 6 percent. The vast majority of Vietnam’s poor people—86 percent—are ethnic minorities. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries have been working in Sumba, a predominantly Christian island in Indonesia, for the last 20 years. The community, led by Father Adie Prinanto Laurensius, has the aspirantate, the pre-novitiate, a vocational training center and a secondary technical school that offers opportunities for internships. There is also Daughters of Mary Help of Christians and the first organized center of Past Pupils of Don Bosco in the country.

Recently, Salesian missionaries have been focused on the technical school. The first stone for a new building was laid during a ceremony in July. The new building will accommodate 216 students, increasing from the current 140 students. Added space will also allow for adequate equipment and improve the quality of education offered.

This project was conceived five years ago and was carried out thanks to the commitment of the Salesian Vice Province St. Luigi Versiglia of Indonesia together with Don Bosco Mondo and the German government. The new building will take roughly 10 months to complete.

The Salesians are regarded as the single largest provider of vocational and technical training in the world. They offer more than 1,000 vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools around the globe. This training provides youth the practical skills to prepare for employment and helps them lead productive lives while becoming contributing adults in their communities. These programs go beyond educating. They also assist youth with making connections within industries and preparing them for the process of searching, finding and retaining employment.

“We know that access to education lays the foundation for a better future for all youth and that work must continue even as we face a global health crisis,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco “In many countries around the globe where poverty is high and access to education is not universal, it is crucial that Salesian missionaries continue to offer technical and vocational training to as many youth as possible to ensure that they have access to long-term stable employment. The expansion of the technical school will ensure that many more youth have access to the education they need.”

According to the World Bank, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed 2.76 million more Indonesians into poverty, bringing the country’s poverty rate to the highest level since March 2017. Due to job loss and business closure, there are 27.5 million people living below the poverty line as of September 2020. This is up significantly from 24.8 million a year earlier.

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VIETNAM

(MissionNewswire) Salesian parishes in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, have set up transit stations to distribute water and other necessities for people in lockdown during a new wave of the COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted the city in recent weeks. Those who have been quarantined have no way to provide for their families, and many are relying on the assistance of Salesians to get by during this time.

When a special quarantine order was issued in Ho Chi Minh City on July 9, Salesian priests and younger confreres with the Rinaldi Theologate community brought drinking water to families. They worked in collaboration with young migrants and the Pastoral Council of the Don Bosco Xuan Hiep Parish.

Three large water tanks were transported to isolated areas, where families took the water from the tanks and transferred it to special containers. In addition, basic necessities were also distributed. Other Salesian parishes in Ho Chi Minh City, including Ben Cat and Ba Thon, have also carried out the same initiative.

Salesians in the city of Da Lat and in the communities of K’Long contacted garden owners to collect vegetables and send them to Ho Chi Minh City. To date, vegetables have been sent to the Rinaldi Theologate community and the Don Bosco Xuan Hiep Parish where Salesians have been distributing them to people in need.

The pandemic situation in Vietnam remains serious. According to the Ministry of Health, since the end of April the number of infections in Vietnam has risen to 59,165 with Ho Chi Minh City having the highest rate of infection. Over the past week, Ho Chi Minh City has registered between 1,000 and 5,000 new cases every day. With the new quarantine, traditional markets are temporarily closed and entry and exit from the city is tightly controlled. Many workers and poor people are in extremely difficult situations.

The Archdiocese of Saigon sent a letter inviting the religious communities in Ho Chi Minh City to volunteer, especially to help the health sector. There are already 531 people registered to participate. They will be trained and vaccinated before working in hospitals and health facilities.

According to the World Bank, close to 14 percent of Vietnam’s population lives in conditions of poverty. The country has seen a drastic reduction of poverty over the last 20 years when the poverty rate was close to 60 percent. Vietnam has also made remarkable progress in education. Primary and secondary enrollments for those in poverty have reached more than 90 percent and 70 percent respectively.

Rising levels of education and diversification into off-farm activities such as working in construction, factories or domestic housework have also contributed to reducing poverty in the country. Salesian programs give impoverished children and families opportunities that are typically only available to the middle and upper classes so that all people can have hope for a better future.

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CAMBODIA

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries operate Don Bosco House, a multifunctional center for children, in the city of Sihanoukville, Cambodia. The center includes a kindergarten, nursery, daycare center and shelter. The goal of the center is to provide services to vulnerable women and children who are most at risk of exploitation, human trafficking and crime while living on the streets within the city.

The need for such support was so critical that before construction was complete on the center, mothers lined up to enroll their children for services. The kindergarten class started with 15 children with 10 in the nursery and two living at the shelter full-time. According to Brother Roberto Panetto, coordinator of the center, many of the children entering the program suffered from some form of physical and/or emotional neglect.

Today, there are 19 children, ranging from a few months old to age 9, at the home. Pisey, age 6, was born in Phnom Penh and taken to the Don Bosco Center at age 2 because her parents were unable to take care of her and her brother. Today, her mother is in prison and there is no information about her father. Another child, Buth, age 4, is at Don Bosco House because his mother has mental health challenges and has never been able to take care of him.

Bro. Panetto explained, “At the center, these children receive nutritious meals, baths and clean clothes. They see a doctor when needed, receive attention and can play in a safe environment. And—most important—they are prepared for primary school.”

Sihanoukville is a popular tourist destination. Child exploitation is a challenge for the city and is caused by extreme poverty, difficult socio-economic condition, drug trafficking and widespread prostitution. Many children are not registered in the civil registry and are the easiest prey  to be used for the workforce, sexual exploitation or human trafficking.

Don Bosco House gives these children a chance at a positive and happy life free from the dangers of the street.

According to the World Bank, poverty continues to fall in Cambodia. In 2017, the poverty rate was close to 14 percent compared to 47.8 percent in 2007. About 90 percent of the poor live in the countryside. While Cambodia has achieved the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) of halving poverty in 2009, the vast majority of families who escaped poverty were only able to do so by a small margin. Around 4.5 million people remain near-poor, vulnerable to falling back into poverty when exposed to economic and other external challenges.

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Family in Thailand recently launched the “We are in the Same Boat” campaign to help bring relief to people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative provided 500 food bags for poor residents living in Khao Yoi, Phetchaburi Province and in Ban Pong, Ratchaburi Province. Another 100 food bags were given to refugees from Myanmar staying along the border of the Kanchanaburi Province. The event was held at the grounds of the Salesian Society in Bangkok.

The COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand is still impacting between 2,300-3,000 people who are testing positive each day. Many are working in large factories and in close contact with each other. The virus has also spread into adjacent villages. The government has made an effort to vaccinate people, but the numbers are still low.

There are also refugees from Myanmar who are fleeing to Thailand for safety but find once they arrive, they face hardships as they settle in. These families have few resources, and they are at a higher risk of contracting COVID-19.

The Salesian Family in Thailand has reached out to people by offering food and support. The campaign, which was coordinated by the Salesian planning and development office, had the support and participation of Father Aaron Alcoseba, the Salesian vice provincial. It also had the support and participation of Salesian missionaries and members of Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Salesian Cooperators, Association of Mary Help of Christians, Sisters Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Institute of the Queenship of Mary, the Sisters of the Queenship of Mary, and the Salesian Past Pupils.

The Salesian Family thanked Father Sarawin Phatsrirueang, the assistant director of the Social Development Center, for receiving the food bags, and Surasit Jit-uthat, a staff member of COERR Kanchanaburi, for bringing the food bags to be handed out to the refugees.

“Since the areas affected by the COVID-19 pandemic have been put in lockdown and refugees were difficult to reach, bringing the goods directly to the recipients was therefore impossible. We had to rely on the support of the Diocesan Social Action Center and COERR Kanchanaburi for acting as the ‘human bridge’ to bring the food donations to those who are suffering,” the Salesian Family said in a statement.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. One of the best known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Its education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical Technology Center (known locally as Don Bosco Legazpi), located in Banquerohan, Legazpi City, Philippines, is helping a new generation of farmers prepare for the future. The average age of farmers in the country is 57, and youth have a real opportunity to gain steady employment and make an impact on farming in their communities.

Don Bosco Legazpi is a technical vocational school offering skills training and a farm development program to help youth and local farmers achieve self-sufficiency. As part of the center, Salesians have seven hectares of land for agricultural production, known as the Don Bosco Demonstration Farm. On the farm, Salesians teach agricultural production and proper utilization of agricultural equipment.

There is also the Don Bosco agricultural multi-purpose cooperative which facilitates microfinancing to farmers and coordinates the use of tractors and other mechanics for land preparation, planting, weeding, marketing and training. Part of the agricultural production is raising pigs and chickens. Currently, Salesians have facilities for 14 sows and two buildings for 1,000 chickens each. The chickens produce eggs to sell to generate an income as part of the training program in entrepreneurship.

Don Bosco Legazpi has also created the Bosconian Young Farmers Club, an agricultural club of young past pupils. Last year, with the help of industry professionals, 10 volunteers received training and orientation about the club and how it should be run. The club includes these 10 volunteer members along with five honorary members. It is run by Salesian Father Ronilo Javines.

The Bosconian Young Farmers Club offers a youth cooperative that supports agro-entrepreneurial initiatives and promotes family-based natural farming, helps with the reduction of the ecological footprint of Salesian activities, and runs a youth farm.

“This small but very significant seed could bear many fruits and inspire other Salesians and past pupils in many agricultural realities to follow this path,” said Fr. Javines.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, the Salesian Philippines South Province made a formal agreement with the Region 7 Office of the Department of Health to use its retreat house in Lawaan, Talisay City, as temporary boarding for frontline workers. These health care professionals had to isolate themselves, even from their families, for everyone’s protection.

Chester B. Hamoy, an alumnus of a Salesian school and a licensed nurse, said, “During the first few months, I was very scared. I was at a loss due to the sudden changes. I was also concerned for my safety due to people’s discrimination of health workers who were being accused of being carriers of COVID-19. I was also scared for my family since my father has comorbidity, and we live in a compound owned by my grandparents with relatives, some of whom are also senior citizens. That is why I decided to look for a place to stay so that I can be at peace that my family will be spared from the virus.”

Hamoy heard stories about nurses who were refused entry to their shared boarding houses and neighborhoods and of frontline workers doused with water by people afraid of the virus. The situation took its toll on him.

“When they offered accommodations at Don Bosco Retreat House, I did not immediately grab the opportunity because I really wanted to isolate myself even from my fellow front-liners,” explained Hamoy.

Medical professionals not only needed a place to stay, but they needed community support to get through the demanding physical and psychological job they had in front of them. Initially wary of each other, those who took refuge in the retreat house discovered a sense of community in their shared experience and struggle.

Hamoy said, “A lot of struggles came in—there was fear of the virus, safety, financial problems and family concerns. I was just so blessed that I was staying here. Attending the Mass every day made me forget my personal concerns for at least an hour. I was so fortunate to have Father Eugene with us. The support he gave did not just help me spiritually but also my mental well-being.”

Father Eugene Maglasang volunteered to stay with the frontline workers in the retreat house. He celebrated Masses for them, engaged them at meals and even organized a retreat for them in the mountains of southern Cebu. Those living in the house bonded together and supported one another as a community.

“I had the opportunity to make new friends in my stay here in the retreat house since 90 percent of the occupants were also working in Talisay District Hospital with me,” Hamoy added. “We had rules to follow, and we also had roles assigned to us. I have learned how to cook and tried to cook new recipes. It was a good diversion that we enjoyed outside work.”

The last of the health care workers left to go back to their own homes on May 10, 2021. Hamoy said, “I am sad right now because we are leaving. I am having separation anxiety. I did not feel it until yesterday when I was packing my things and trying to sort out what to bring and what to throw away. Seeing all my stuff made me emotional and I find it funny because I am not an emotional person. I became attached to this community after being together for one year.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5-15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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ANS – Philippines – Lawaan: a Home for Heroes

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire)  St. Dominic Savio Parish, located in Mandaluyong City, Philippines, launched a community pantry to provide free food directly to community members suffering from food scarcity due to the pandemic. The food supplies are donated by members of the community who can afford to do so and left in the pantry for anyone in need. The idea behind it is that people can take as much as they need and donate whatever they can.

This effort is spearheaded by Salesian Father Eduardo Hila, the St. Dominic Savio Parish priest. The project is a collaborative effort of 17 organizations that are a part of the parish, local government and private individuals. Local organizations are helping by asking for donations, packing, manning the pantry and inventory, and educating people about the purpose and value of the initiative. Local officials are there to monitor health protocols and social distancing for those people who are picking up essential goods.

The pandemic has caused increased worries, fear, and hopelessness among parishioners, and the parish is responding by showing compassion, kindness, and humility.

A Salesian missionary said, “The St. Dominic Savio Parish pantry sends a strong message of ‘God’s love in action’ and ‘Loving my neighbor’ by people being able to share their blessings, and those who are in need are able to get what they need. Sustainability is a great challenge for the volunteers, but they believe in the kindness and generosity of individuals and families. They encourage the residents of the six barangays to share what they have.”

People have enjoyed how the community has come together in support of one another. One parishioner said, “We receive a lot of support from our parish priest and from other priests in the community. We thought our food supply would run out, but there was always something coming.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5-15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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ANS – Philippines – Solidarity and communion in the neighbourhood: Salesian parish launches its “community pantry”

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical Technology Center (known locally as Don Bosco Legazpi), located in Banquerohan, Legazpi City, Philippines, had the funding to purchase 1,000 chickens thanks to donor funding from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Don Bosco Legazpi is a technical vocational school offering skills training and a farm development program for youth and local farmers to help them achieve self-sufficiency. As part of the center, Salesians have seven hectares of land for agricultural production, known as the Don Bosco Demonstration Farm. On the farm, Salesians teach agricultural production and proper utilization of agricultural equipment.

There is also the Don Bosco agricultural multi-purpose cooperative which facilitates microfinancing to farmers and coordinates the use of tractors and other mechanics for land preparation, planting, weeding, marketing and training. Part of the agricultural production is raising pigs and chickens. Currently, Salesians have facilities for 14 sows and two buildings for 1,000 chickens each. The chickens provided by this funding will produce eggs to sell to generate an income as part of the training program in entrepreneurship.

“We appreciate the funding our donors provided that is enabling Don Bosco Legazpi to have the chickens they need to produce eggs and generate an income,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Don Bosco Legazpi was specifically opened to provide technical farming education to poor youth with scarce resources, and instruct them in the practical skills of farming to allow them to earn a living and give back to their communities.”

Don Bosco Legazpi offers its students an opportunity to combine theory with practice through its hands-on approach. Students use the skills they learn in the classroom by putting them directly to work in the fields that are part of the center’s farm. They are taught theoretical and practical courses in topics such as greenhouses, growing vegetables, cereal crops, gardening, breeding, animal husbandry and veterinary sciences, and dairy products.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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Don Bosco Agro-Mechanical Technology Center Facebook

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UNICEF – Philippines

The post PHILIPPINES: Donor funding supports farming entrepreneurship program first appeared on MissionNewswire.

THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Vitthaya School in Udon Thani, Thailand, encourages students to explore different kinds of music in the classroom and in musical groups. Students practice their skills based on their interests and likes. The music course is taught in addition to regular school subjects and gives youth an opportunity to explore their talent.

Father Thomas Smith Daengampan, director of the school, initiated a special event known as “Music as a method of learning” which took place in the school’s meeting room. Students in the music course played in an orchestra and in groups. The event featured ethnic, traditional and modern music and included drums, percussion, flag wavers and more. The event was attended by more than 3,000 students who are learning to appreciate music.

“Salesian programs provide more than traditional education and include courses on music, art and sports,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Youth need opportunities for safe places to play and connect with adults and their peers. The event held at the Don Bosco Vitthaya School provided an opportunity not only for youth to show off their talents but also gave a chance to other students to learn about culture and enjoy a new experience.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. One of the best known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Its education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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ANS – Thailand – Musical event for students of “Don Bosco Vitthaya” school

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Don Bosco Pasil launched Mamma Margaret’s Garden during the pandemic

PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Pasil, in Cebu City, Philippines, launched the Mamma Margaret’s Garden last year. Pasil is one of the villages in Cebu City that is highly populated and the houses are densely packed. Availability of land for planting is very limited so the project used recycled plastic bottles to plant fruits and vegetables

Salesian Brother Julius Ysulan and Brother Raffy Besonia run the garden and provide weekly educational sessions on environmental issues. After a year of planting and growing, the harvest is here. Families have fruits and vegetables without having to use their limited money to buy them at the store.

Mc Dowell C. Colarte II, a youth in Pasil, said, “Bro. Julius shared his seedling experience during the lockdown in Cebu City last year. He also introduced us to some environmental initiatives and Pope Francis’ 2020 Laudato Si’, which has as its theme ‘Good Christians and Upright Citizens.’ Bro. Julius talked about how beneficial plants can be to society, how a single trash can affect us, and how fun planting is—just like having a pet, you take care of it.”

James Delima, KOA member and youth leader, noted, “I’ve learned that we can use those unused things around us—empty plastic bottles and rubber tires—and turn it into something that we can benefit from. It’s not too late to help nature by throwing out trash and planting trees, fruits and vegetables so that we can harvest it if we don’t have anything to eat. It is true that planting is not that easy, but he who plants trees, love others besides himself.”

This garden is one of many initiatives launched during the pandemic. Several Salesian organizations in the Philippines started farming and gardening projects to help provide food relief to families in need. An 8,000-square-meter soccer field at St. John Bosco Parish, located in Tondo, Manila, had its first harvest festival where anyone could pay and harvest vegetables. The initiative launched in October 2020 and was spearheaded by the Department of Agrarian Reform, along with the Department of Agriculture, St. John Bosco Parish and the Manila local government. The project resulted in the first urban farm in Manila.

The project was launched by six agrarian reform beneficiaries from Cavite, who are known as farmer-scientists. They volunteered to teach the residents of Tondo skills and techniques in urban vegetable farming. After the initial training, Tondo residents planted squash, upo, kangkong, spinach, mustard, and pechay in the vegetable garden. The urban farm is benefiting people living in 17 barangays (neighborhoods) around the St. John Bosco Parish.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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ANS – Philippines – “Don Bosco Pasil” for a Greener Campus

PHILIPPINES: First urban farm in Manila launches

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Two youth attending the Don Bosco Technical Vocational Center in Calauan, Philippines, continued their studies thanks to scholarship funding provided by donors of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The financial assistance received will enable the students to gain the education needed to find and retain stable employment either locally or internationally.

Don Bosco Calauan provides education in automotive servicing, motorcycle small engine servicing, computer systems servicing, electrical installation and maintenance, and shielded metal arc welding.

“We at Don Bosco Calauan are grateful to Salesian Missions for the support you have given us especially in this great moment of crisis,” said Father Jeffrey L. Mangubat, administrator and technical director of Don Bosco Calauan. “We thank you for being part of our mission in cutting the vicious cycle of poverty among youth as we provide them quality technical education and training which will bring them to obtain a decent future. The students and their parents are very grateful for this wonderful opportunity.”

The Salesians are regarded as the single largest provider of vocational and technical training in the world. They offer more than 1,000 vocational, technical, professional and agricultural schools around the globe. This training provides youth the practical skills to prepare for employment and helps them lead productive lives while becoming contributing adults in their communities. These programs go beyond educating. They also assist youth with making connections within industries and preparing them for the process of searching, finding and retaining employment.

“We know that access to education lays the foundation for a better future for all youth and that work must continue even as we face a global health crisis,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “In many countries around the globe where poverty is high and access to education is not universal, it is crucial that Salesian missionaries continue to offer technical and vocational training to as many youth as possible to ensure that they have access to long-term stable employment.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5-15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Don Bosco Technical Vocational Center Facebook

Salesian Missions –  Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technical and Vocational Training Centers in the southern Philippines are providing a blended learning environment for students and teachers during the 2020-2021 school year, thanks in part to funding received from Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. The funding supported more than 500 trainees and 48 instructors in eight Don Bosco centers in Cebu, Negros, Iloilo, Eastern Samar in the Visayas Islands and Davao in the Mindanao Islands.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an upheaval in all aspects of life, including education,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions. “Digital readiness has never been more important. We are pleased to be able to support Salesian missionaries as they work to find a new way of educating students and ensuring that their teachers have the resources that they need to continue to provide technical and vocational training.”

Don Bosco centers in the southern Philippines are committed to delivering blended learning this school year and in the future. Centers are working to reimagine educational opportunities to create a “new normal” that maintains and improves the quality of life of students.

Internet connectivity is a challenge not only faced by Don Bosco educators and learners but by the whole country. The biggest hurdle is the lack of access to online facilities for those living in conditions of poverty. With funding, recording rooms were set up in each of the Don Bosco centers for digital production of learning materials.

In addition, the funding provided a trainee package comprising of a flash drive, printed modules, two washable face masks and one face shield. Trainees were also given a rent-to-own tablet, along with a food and accommodation subsidy.

Online classes are using a combination of Google Classrooms, Google Meet and Facebook Messenger. During online classes, trainees can use the flash drive, which contains digital learning modules, including videos, illustrations, interactive exercises and other offline learning modalities developed by the Don Bosco centers. Content of the flash drives is updated with each week’s lessons along with a printable version of the educational materials.

The Don Bosco centers are providing a monthly internet incentive to instructors to facilitate online teaching, online activities, and online follow-ups. At the Don Bosco centers, there is internet connection for instructors. For instructors who do not have a device for online classes, rent-to-own laptops are being made available for two years interest-free.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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Photo courtesy of Salesian Missions (contact for usage permissions)

Salesians of Don Bosco Southern Philippines Province

Salesian Missions – Philippines

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries are helping 2,600 families after the Suba River, near the St. Joseph Worker Salesian Parish, caused flash flooding in Victorias City, Philippines. The flooding resulted in the destruction of homes and many people lost everything.

Many families found shelter in the large Shrine of Mary Immaculate in the Cane Town district, a space Salesians opened during the flooding for those who needed a safe place. Salesian missionaries have been collecting donations including boxes of pasta, clothes, blankets, towels, shoes, bags of rice, soap, biscuits and preserves.

Salesian Father Joriz Calsa, youth ministry delegate, shared a message on the parish Facebook page. “Blessings of help poured in from some of our friends in Cebu, local communities and Don Bosco Past Pupils of different schools. So far, we are on our second week giving food assistance. The past two weeks we have distributed the food packs and other relief goods to 2,600 families. We focused on this help, since the materials for reconstruction cost a lot and it is beyond our means.”

Fr. Calsa added, “Our parish initiative was very much appreciated especially when we opened the doors of our large shrine as an evacuation center which sheltered 87 people the night of the flood. People also appreciated the distribution of food assistance.”

The relief work was supported by many parish volunteers who packed relief goods and then were involved in the distribution. The packages were initially distributed in the Cane Town Shrine, then from house to house. Relief items are still coming in and are being provided to families in need.

The St. Joseph Worker Parish covers a large rural geographic area where most people earn their living from agriculture. Located on the island of Negros, it is the first Salesian presence in the Philippines, having started in 1951. The parish is part of a broader Salesian mission in the area. Salesians offer education and social development services in the region.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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ANS – Philippines – “Don Bosco Victorias” helps 2,600 flooded families

Don Bosco Victorias

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) An 8,000-square-meter soccer field at St. John Bosco Parish, located in Tondo, Manila, Philippines, had its first harvest festival where anyone could pay and harvest vegetables. The initiative was launched in October 2020 and was spearheaded by the Department of Agrarian Reform, along with the Department of Agriculture, St. John Bosco Parish and the Manila local government. The project resulted in the first urban farm in Manila.

The project was launched by six agrarian reform beneficiaries from Cavite, who are known as farmer-scientists. They volunteered to teach the residents of Tondo skills and techniques in urban vegetable farming. After the initial training, Tondo residents planted squash, upo, kangkong, spinach, mustard, and pechay in the vegetable garden. The urban farm is benefiting people living in 17 barangays (neighborhoods) around the St. John Bosco Parish.

According to a recent article on CNN Philippines, Agrarian Reform Secretary John Castriciones said the project was initiated to help people badly hit by the pandemic. He explained that vegetable production has been impacted by the typhoons that struck the country last year. A recent independent survey noted that 30.7 percent of families, an estimated 7.6 million households, have experienced hunger due to lack of food, in the past three months.

“We know that there has been difficulty in transporting vegetables from the provinces because of the typhoons and restrictions due to the pandemic. That’s why there’s a need to educate residents in Metro Manila and other urban areas on urban agriculture,” said Castriciones in the CNN Philippines article.

According to Castriciones, there are plans to expand the project to Quezon City and Caloocan where there have already been talks with local government leaders.

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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CNN Philippines – Tondo residents hold a “pick, harvest and pay” promo in their 1st urban vegetable garden harvest festival

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MYANMAR

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Nazareth House in Anisakan, Myanmar, held a meeting on Dec. 26 to discuss social ecology and care for creation. The meeting brought together 55 people, including Salesians, youth, volunteers and house staff. The meeting was held in response to the call from Pope Francis in his 2020 Laudato Si, which has as its theme “Good Christians and Upright Citizens.”

Pope Francis underlined the importance of education and training that will help youth shape a lifestyle and foster environmental responsibility. Further, Rector Major Father Ángel Fernández Artime noted the importance of concrete initiatives in the care of the environment. The first objective is encouraging the environmental commitment of youth.

Salesian missionaries in Myanmar and around the globe have an ongoing focus on the environment. Many have joined the Don Bosco Green Alliance, an international collective of youth from Salesian institutions and organizations that contribute to global environmental action, thought and policy. Launched in April 2018 in India, the Alliance has 273 registered members from 56 countries. Membership is open to all Salesian institutions and organizations worldwide.

“The Don Bosco Green Alliance is an important part of our Salesian youth ministry today,” said Father Savio Silveira, the convener of the Alliance. “Young people feel very strongly about the environmental crisis since they understand the impact it has on their lives and their future. Accompanying young people as they seek solutions to environmental issues has to be an aspect of our youth ministry.”

Don Bosco Green Alliance members work to create an environment that is safe and caring for all life on the planet while building up a new generation of environmentally committed citizens and leaders. The Alliance’s priorities are combating pollution, reducing global warming and eliminating disposable plastics. In each of these areas, it aims to partner with ongoing global campaigns promoted by UN Environment or other international organizations.

Members of the Alliance have also undertaken such initiatives as environmental education to increase green areas and planting trees, the reduction of the use of nondegradable materials, promotion of organic agriculture and home gardens, preservation and conservation of water, and increasing the use of renewable energy sources.

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ANS – Myanmar – A meeting to raise awareness of social ecology

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(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries in the capital city of Vientiane, Laos, bring gifts to the poor who live in the waste dump on the city’s outskirts. On Dec. 24, Father Paul Trung, together with students from the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center, delivered supplies and gifts for people as a token of Christmas spirit.

Salesian missionaries began working in Laos in 2004 when an Italian Salesian missionary, Father Tito Pedron, a teacher and five past pupils from the Salesian vocational training school in Thailand launched the Laos Project. The educational project started with 12 students and doubled enrollment by the second year. Inspectors from the Ministry of Labor were impressed by the professionalism of the teachers and the level of student learning.

The Don Bosco Vocational Training Center has been recognized by the Laotian Youth Union Department, a youth organization of the Communist party, which showed great interest in the education provided. In 2008, the center moved to its current location and the collaboration with the Laotian Youth Union was ratified by a contract for five years, renewable every five years.

Currently, the Don Bosco Vocational Training Center educates about 150 students each year who come from every province in the country and who are mostly poor. According to the contract, the Laotian Youth Union, together with Salesian missionaries, selects the students who will attend. Priority is given to those living in challenging economic situations and those with insufficient school preparation, such as having dropped out of school just after elementary school. Students are selected after completing a written test and an interview.

“Once admitted to the center, youth are able to choose from a wide range of courses, all aimed at helping youth gain professional skills,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Courses for mechanics and electricians last one year and accommodate about 40 students per discipline. Courses on welding and motorcycle repair last six months. This education enables youth to find employment soon after graduation.”

The Don Bosco Vocational Training Center is a vital resource for the poorest families in Laos. Government agencies and local authorities often express their appreciation for the center. According to data from the Laotian Youth Union Department, about 75 percent of the boys who completed their studies there have found work.

Poverty in Laos, formally known as the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, has been on the decline for the last decade, according to the World Bank. Despite improvements in the economy, the poverty rate in Laos is at 23.2 percent. Poverty in Laos tends to be higher in underdeveloped, mountainous areas of the country. Those that live in these isolated areas are often left without access to electricity, schools and even roads.

Many of the ethnic minorities in Laos live in underserved, rural areas. These minority groups are further isolated by barriers in language, customs and religion. This, combined with geographic isolation, contributes to a higher rate of poverty for those who live in rural communities.

The economy in Laos has been rapidly growing. The growth can be attributed to the fact that Laos is home to a bounty of natural resources including water, minerals and forests. Additionally, construction and services have expanded and contributed to an increase in tourism and foreign investment.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian St. John Bosco Parish, in Minoyan, Murcia, Negros Occidental, Philippines, has access to clean water thanks to a new project funded by the Salesian Missions “Clean Water Initiative.” The new water supply will serve the Salesian Youth Center, kindergarten, parish office and rectory. The project included the installation of pipelines for a new water source, construction of a raised stand for the water tank, and installation of a water tank and motor pump.

The Salesian parish population serves close to 15,000 people, 90 percent of whom are poor subsistence farmers and sugarcane plantation workers. The majority of the people depend on the government for the basic services that are, more often than not, inefficiently delivered.

Inside the parish compound, Salesian missionaries operate a kindergarten program, which prepares disadvantaged children for formal education. Among elementary students in the Philippines, it’s been found that children who attend kindergarten fare much better academically than those who don’t. However, most kindergarten programs are operated by private institutions that require tuition fees. Most parents in Minoyan only earn a meager income for food which leaves nothing for the cost of education.

In addition to classes, Salesian missionaries also offer pastoral activities and gatherings, requiring a steady water supply for the parish. Prior to the project, the Salesian parish received its water supply from an old source that was also supplying water to a large number of households in Minoyan, leading to an inadequate water supply for the parish.

“The water projects we fund ensure that Salesian programs around the globe have access to safe, clean water for the health and safety of those we serve,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Access to clean water brings a sense of dignity to communities and promotes proper hygiene. This also reduces the number of waterborne illnesses that can affect those in our schools, keeping them away from important study time.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent of the population are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

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Salesian Missions – Philippines

UNICEF – Philippines

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Thailand was hit with a strong typhoon that battered the southern part of the country at the end of November. The storm brought sudden flooding and disruption to 11 provinces. Even though the water level has come down, there is still flooding and flood damage in the region with the province of Nakhon Si Thammarat affected the most.

The Salesian Saengthong Vitthaya School mobilized support from the Association of Past Pupils, the Parent-Teacher Association, and teachers and students. Working together, they contributed more than 2,000 food bags and financial support to help the villagers of Amphoe Chawang and the local community of Bo Sap. The school also gave scholarships to Don Bosco Development Training Center in Amphoe Ronphiboon.

In addition, a group of senior high school students donated financial support to the vice-governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat Province for children impacted by the typhoon. The money the students donated was earned through tutoring fees from Zoom sessions they held with younger children. Many students, even those from other provinces, were interested in receiving tutoring support.

The vice-governor was impressed by the initiative and by the students for their volunteerism and desire to help those in need. He also praised the Salesian school for encouraging volunteerism.

“Salesian schools instill the importance of giving back to one’s community so it’s no surprise that these graduates, teachers and students are helping in any way they can,” Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “For as difficult as 2020 has been, these moments offer a ray of hope for the future. Even through challenging times of their own, young people are willing to give back and help others.”

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. One of the most known programs is Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships that help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Thailand – Salesians Helping the Flood Victims in the South

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Salesian missionaries with Mary Help of Christians Parish in Bangkok, Thailand, have resumed their prison support activities after COVID-19 restrictions put a halt to their work earlier this year. Once a month for the past 10 years, Father Aaron Alcoseba, the Salesian parish priest, has visited the three main detention centers of Thanyaburi, Min Buri and Pathum Thani.

Fr. Alcoseba provides pastoral support to people in prison, especially young prisoners. This mission is part of the pastoral plan of the local church. This year, for the first time, these visits had to stop, but Fr. Alcoseba was pleased when he was allowed to return to his normal activities in the prison in October.

The main purpose of the visits is to assist Catholic prisoners through formation and catechesis activities and to offer the opportunity to approach the sacrament of Reconciliation, to participate in Mass or to attend other liturgical services.

Since Fr. Alcoseba’s return, prisoners of other faiths, both Buddhists and Muslims, have also decided to join the activities. They said they felt especially impressed by the way the formation is carried out. All  who participate receive a certificate of attendance, which entitles them to a reduction in their prison sentence, provided other conditions are met as well.

“Prison pastoral care is a ministry the spiritual Sons of Don Bosco in Thailand show great interest in. Don Bosco was an example for us in visiting young people in prison and who are on the margins of society,” explained Fr. Alcoseba.

The pastoral activities instill hope for those in prison and offer them incentives to start a new phase in their lives. Salesian missionaries note that if it is true that nothing can be done to remove what happened in the past, it is also true that the future is still to be written and that one can work for the prospect of a better tomorrow.

Salesian missionaries provide education and social programs in Thailand to give poor and disadvantaged youth an opportunity for a brighter future. Also in Bangkok, Salesian missionaries operate Don Bosco Technological College, which has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships which help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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PHILIPPINES

(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Youth Center at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Cebu, Philippines, has launched the #Let’sPlantPositivity initiative, a challenge to promote urban agriculture among youth. The initiative was organized by the Parochial Youth Coordination Council, led by Salesian Father Abundio Bacatan, the new director for youth.

Started on July 9, youth were challenged to grow fruit and vegetables at home to teach them the various stages of cultivation, to help them fight the negativity caused by the pandemic, and to reflect on Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Sì,” which was inaugurated on May 18, commemorating the fifth anniversary of the publication of his eco-encyclical with the same title. At the end of the challenge, the eight youth who had done the best job with their project received gift vouchers.

Cultivation of food at home and at local farms has been critical during the pandemic. Many locations have seen food shortages, and families have lost income and can no longer buy food. Don Bosco Training Center in Mati, the capital city of the province of East Davao, located on the southeastern side of the island of Mindanao, also launched an agricultural project to deal with the quarantine period due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the guidance of Father Rex Carbilledo, the director of the vocational-technical training center, the soil was prepared for cultivation and the first vegetables were planted. Salesians are planting eggplants, okra, lettuce, sweet potatoes, cassava, onions, ginger and sweet corn. The goal was to provide organic and affordable vegetables to the local population and neighboring communities, and to teach them cultivation and farming techniques.

“Providing an opportunity to cultivate the land during this time is important for ensuring that local populations have a source of food and are learning the farming techniques to help make their farms more productive,” said Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Missionaries provide education and workforce development paired with other social services to help poor youth break the cycle of poverty and have hope for the future.”

Since 1950, Salesian Missions has been providing crucial help in the Philippines—working with at-risk youth, impoverished families and disaster victims. Humanitarian agencies warn of the dangers faced by the most disadvantaged children in the Philippines. According to UNICEF, there are at least 1.2 million children between the ages of 5 and 15 who are out of school and are being left behind. In addition, children born into the poorest 20 percent are almost three times more likely to die during their first five years as those from the richest 20 percent.

Salesian missionaries, supported by funding from Salesian Missions, were at the forefront of disaster relief during reconstruction after the Nov. 8, 2013 Super Typhoon Haiyan (locally known as Yolanda) devastated the country. According to United Nations estimates, 11.5 million people were affected by Haiyan and close to 1 million were displaced. More than half a million were homeless and living in the streets among the debris. Salesian missionaries mobilized all resources and efforts to aid the victims of this and other disasters.

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) Don Bosco Technological College in Bangkok, Thailand, has been ensuring poor youth have access to advanced education since 1949. Education programs allow youth to gain the skills needed to find and retain stable employment. To do that successfully, the college has developed partnerships which help train youth in employment sectors that need a skilled workforce and have the jobs available to hire youth right after graduating.

BMW Group Thailand and Don Bosco Technological College have had an ongoing service apprentice program since 2017. The partnership teaches automotive skills, meeting the international standards in the field. The goal is to elevate Thai vocational education to match the German higher education standard. In the first year, 14 students from high vocational certificate classes took part in the program. The program has grown since this time.

“Salesian missionaries know the local economy and develop strategic partnerships to help educate poor youth in high-demand employment sectors,” says Father Gus Baek, director of Salesian Missions, the U.S. development arm of the Salesians of Don Bosco. “Salesian programs aim to help provide youth with the technical education needed to find and retain long-term employment to help them break the cycle of poverty in their lives as well as contribute back to their families and communities.”

The BMW Group Thailand service apprentice program was initially launched in 2012, in collaboration with the German-Thai Chamber of Commerce and BMW authorized dealers. It is part of the German-Thai Dual Excellence Education program. Developed in Germany, the program has achieved outstanding success and has been adopted by many countries.

Participating students have been provided technical education to increase their knowledge and skills through theoretical and on-the-job training at the BMW Training Center and are supported by BMW certified technicians from authorized dealers. In addition, students are granted a full scholarship from BMW Group Thailand and will be employed by a BMW authorized dealer after a probation period.

In 2020, all successful graduates of Don Bosco Technological College received employment offers. Francis Wichai Srisura, head of the automotive mechatronics department, said, “We are glad that our Thai Bosconians are ready for the competitive industrial sector, not only with their human and religious education, but also with their excellent skills.”

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

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THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) DiBosco Coffee, located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is an initiative launched by Mr. Phaisan, who graduated from Don Bosco Technical School in Bangkok 20 years ago. Since then, Phaisan has focused his life on the three things he loves most—coffee, serving the poor and supporting Don Bosco initiatives. Today, Phaisan is operating DiBosco Coffee in an effort to help youth in need. Peter Kováč, a Salesian past pupil, is the co-founder of the DiBosco Coffee project and engaged in seeing the business grow.

DiBosco Coffee offers short courses that train youth in coffee production and then employs successful graduates in the business. Kováč explained that the business has been growing. “We currently work with producers in Africa, Central and South America, and Asia. So far, we cooperate with countries including Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Haiti, USA, Thailand, Philippines, East Timor, Brazil, Kenya, Congo, Slovakia, Hungary, UK, Ireland, Malta, Poland and the Czech Republic. Slowly, we are trying to expand our network with producers and customers/partners.”

He added, “It should be emphasized that ours is fair trade, that is to say that we know from whom we buy coffee, what the conditions under which the coffee is grown are, and that there is always an ethical approach.”

Phaisan and Kováč are already thinking long term. Kováč explained, “We want to be able to enter new markets in America and Africa, and we aim to open 1,000 coffee shops in the next 10 years. With a network of this type, we will be able to develop the potential for international cooperation among past pupils and, at the same time, we will be able to spread the knowledge of Don Bosco, the Salesians and the Past Pupils Association. With our coffee, we would like to encourage and bring some energy and joy to dreamers like us.”

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

One of the more marginalized groups in the country is people with disabilities. Men, women and children with disabilities have been cast aside and perceived as incapable of engaging in meaningful work and leading productive lives. Often those with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, are kept out of school and denied an education. As a result, their future employment prospects are diminished and the cycle of poverty continues.

Salesian programs across Thailand focus on education and workforce development in partnership with social development services that work to meet the basic needs of youth and their families living in poverty. Nearly 1,000 students attend each of the Salesian Professional Training Centers in Thailand. These centers mostly focus on students who have performed poorly in more traditional schools or have learning challenges. Those who graduate from the Salesian training courses are typically able to find immediate employment because the programs taught are tailored to meet local demand.

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The post THAILAND: DiBosco Coffee provides youth an opportunity to learn and gain valuable work experience first appeared on MissionNewswire.

THAILAND

(MissionNewswire) A Salesian Missions donor provided funding for two siblings to continue their education in Thailand. The funding was provided to the Salesian-run Hua Hin Vitthayalai School, located in the town of Hua Hin, and it will enable Poppy, who is 14, to continue with secondary school while her young brother Carlin, age 11, will continue primary school. The funding will also cover the cost of tuition and after school extra classes.

The children’s father is paralyzed and is unable to work. Their mother has been working to care for the family but barely earns enough to cover food, rent, electricity and other basic necessities. The family did not have the extra money to pay for school tuition so the donor’s support was critical in ensuring Poppy and Carlin gain an education.

“We want to ensure the youth are able to finish until grade 12 so we are grateful for the Salesian Missions donor’s support,” said Father Dheparat Pitisant. “We provide them a free lunch and support so they can attend extra classes and extracurricular activities so they have time to connect with their peers. The students are also helping to support their family. During their free time they help to make keychains which the family sells in town at the night market.”

Thailand has shown considerable economic growth over the last 20 years, reducing its poverty rate from 21 percent in 2000 to 10.9 percent today, according to the World Bank. Although the country has made strides in reducing poverty, improving nutrition and meeting the basic needs of its residents, inequality is still pervasive.

One of the more marginalized groups in the country is people with disabilities. Men, women and children with disabilities have been cast aside and perceived as incapable of engaging in meaningful work and leading productive lives. Often those with disabilities, particularly those with visual impairments, are kept out of school and denied an education. As a result, their future employment prospects are diminished and the cycle of poverty continues.

Salesian programs across Thailand focus on education and workforce development in partnership with social development services that work to meet the basic needs of youth and their families living in poverty. Nearly 1,000 students attend each of the Salesian Professional Training Centers in Thailand. These centers mostly focus on students who have performed poorly in more traditional schools or have learning challenges. Those who graduate from the Salesian training courses are typically able to find immediate employment because the programs taught are tailored to meet local demand.

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