The Philippines’ top four universities are in Manila, hosting over 2 million students. Campus Outreach expanded to Manila ten years ago, and the team labors at the University of the Philippines Diliman, where the country’s next leaders attend. Chats with one ten-year veteran of this team revealed the strategic nature of ministry here. I walked away with new statistics to share, and the stories of God’s work in and through CO Manila encouraged my heart.
Approximately 10% of the Filipino population (12 million) work overseas, particularly in closed countries. 97% live in the 10/40 window (between 10°N and 40°N latitude), where only 3% of missionaries serve. Three Filipino siblings—Chette, Den, and William—returned to the Philippines to study at UP Diliman after growing up in the Middle East. These siblings connected with Campus Outreach, which is helping them grow spiritually and equipping them to share the gospel. One day, they might return to work in Saudi Arabia, eager and prepared to share the good news with their friends!
Spanish colonization led to the Philippines’ strong Catholic roots. Around 80-85% of the population identifies as Catholic, and the country has the third-largest Catholic population in the world, meaning many students come to university with a biblical foundation and worldview. Daniel, a freshman at UP who grew up in the church, recently confessed to a self-centered view of God. After processing the gospel, Daniel has recognized his need for a Savior and a life of surrender. Daniel gave his life to Christ and meets weekly with a student leader.
Less than 40% of Filipinos attend church on Sundays, and many do not prioritize spiritual growth. Last month, a large group of students involved with CO Manila chose to pursue personal growth over a long weekend. CO staff and student leaders encouraged students in various stages of spiritual maturity. They shared the truth of a personal God who knows them, makes himself known, and invites them into mission. One student, Sam, learned that the better she knows God, the more her excitement grows to make Christ known!
CO SERVE is privileged to support the staff in Manila and covets your prayers. Please consider joining the annual Worldwide Day of Prayer this April! Click the image below, register, and then share the opportunity with your friends!
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