In a meeting with Nazarene Compassionate Ministry (NCM represented by Rev. Ilde Detalo, Dan Balayo, Glen Loyola, and Rev. David Phillips) last February 8, 2010, the President of Visayan Forum Foundation Inc., Ma. Cecilia Flores-Oebanda expressed her desire for partnership with Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS represented by Dr. Robert Donahue, Dr. Lee San Young, Rovina Hatcher, Nativity Petallar, Rene Aril, and Calm Mijares) in the near future. This is given the fact that NCM is already a bonafide member of Visayan Forum (VF) after the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that was conducted on February 11, 2010 during APNTS chapel.
During the meeting, Dr. Robert Donahue, APNTS Step-up Coordinator asked Ms.Oebanda if APNTS could have a partnership with APNTS since the latter is a theological institution and not a non-government organization. The President of VF agreed favourably to Donahue’s suggestion. Being a partner of VF means that the beneficiary would receive funds for the purchase of 2 computer units, one printer, and LCD projector and P40,000 per quarter for IT, Life Skills trainings, and maintenance of utilities for 18 months.
The main objective of this partnership is to fight trafficking of persons in the Philippines. APNTS and NCM have been very active in the Stop Trafficking and Exploitation of People through Unlimited Potential (Step-Up) program by training trainers and out-of-school youth (OSY) since last year. APNTS has trained 165 persons (15 years old and above) in computer basics, life skills, job interview issues, and resume making.
Visayan Forum representatives expressed their desire to do further exploration with APNTS and NCM on large-scale programs in the prevention of human trafficking in the community, church, and school levels. They are so excited to do trainings and advocacy among pastors, teachers, and seminary students. While being in the campus, the APNTS representatives showed the VF representatives the fourth floor of the Nielson’s Center for Christian Education (NCEE) Building and they suggested that when the conference hall is done, they would want to conduct one of their events there. Ms. Oebanda also expressed excitement over the Alternative Learning System (ALS) sessions that will be conducted in APNTS beginning this summer. She asked if APNTS could accommodate two trafficking survivors who are currently in their halfway house in Antipolo City. The APNTS team gave her a positive response since the purpose of the ALS is to alleviate the life situation of children and youth in the community, a common cause that both VF and APNTS share.
Today both NCM and APNTS are used by God to bring about a positive change in the lives of people, not just with those who are already Christians but especially with those who have never experienced the love and grace that only Christ can give.
