Situated in the very remote highlands above the west coast of Palawan, one would think that Kabgan was a God-forsaken place, but trekking groups pass through the village on their way to climb Mount Mantalingahan. They post photos on social media, marveling at the unusual ecology of the rainforest. Yet they do not know the people or the culture of those we are honored to know personally and have had the privilege of leading to Christ.

Air support into the region is limited by mechanical problems, a lack of pilots, or, more recently, political machinations. Development of the mission site has been particularly slow due to the very long and difficult trek, resulting in infrequent visitation. Our resident Palawano lay pastor and teacher, Kalbu, manages to keep things running even though communication from the area is unreliable, water must be carried long distances, the church-school roof leaks like a sieve and politicians and others cause stress and slow down the ministry in the area.

Gratefully, Napthali (one of our long-term staff missionaries), although himself limited by physical problems, has recently managed to get a water system installed that pumps the water up to where people live. This week, he installed a new roof. Just imagine a sheet of metal roofing rolled up and put on your shoulder, and then trekking with it for six to eight hours.

These repairs may seem small to someone in a developed country, but for the people of Kabgan, whose previous roof was made of local grasses, they represent an enormous and long-lasting improvement to their lives. More importantly, the villagers feel truly cared for when one of us can travel there and spend time with them.

Please pray that we will be granted permission to construct an airstrip in the area, allowing us to minister more frequently to these dear people.

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