The initial Global Disaster Response team returned to the U.S. shortly before Christmas. The roof of Bogo Presbyterian Church is now stronger structurally and ready to have a local crew come and install the sheeting that is already waiting on site. Another medical clinic was held in a Bogo church on the last day just around the corner from where the team stayed. 

Over the course of 10 days, the team helped not only with church reconstruction, but also with reconstruction in the community where many homes were decimated. The medical contingent conducted clinics, providing both physical and psychological care to victims, who were grateful for the opportunity to finally talk about their experiences. 

In Cebu and surrounding areas, reconstruction needs are endless. Devastation was at a colossal level, but not equally or evenly distributed. Many structures no longer exist and others need significant repair, while others need limited supplies and materials to return to a pre-typhoon state. 

What’s Next? 
MTW’s work is not done. Hundreds of generous donors have given more than $420,000 to MTW relief efforts in the Philippines, and as a result MTW’s response can continue for months to come. MTW plans to partner with Filipino pastor Zuriel Bernandino, who is planting a Reformed church in a strategic area of Manila as a part of Redeemer’s City to City ministry and is reaching out to Tacloban, the area hardest hit by the typhoon. Four students in the church have families in Tacloban, enabling the church to minister to and through these families. 

New team leaves for Tacloban on Sunday
A secondary assessment team of four men leaves the U.S. on Sunday for Tacloban. They are joining a Japanese medical and construction team (from a church that partners with Pastor Zuriel). The aim is to figure out more specifically how MTW can best partner with Zuriel, e.g. teams, money, etc. Please be in prayer for this team and for wisdom as decisions are made.