Phone calls from the Republic of the Philippines

Larry called me today and gave me a quick update. He told me that each student had been able to make a phone call back home from our little phone. I hope that you were home when the phone rang. If not, go check you message machine.

Larry said the students are enjoying their time in Pakak. They are helping dig two Comfort Rooms (CR's), what we would call bathrooms or restrooms. I know it sounds silly, calling a bathroom a "comfort" room, but think about it- we don't "rest" or take a "bath" in them all that often either.

A CR in this village means a 9x9x9 foot hole dug into the hard clay. They use sharpened rebar to break up the ground and shovels to remove the dirt. It is hard work in the sun. You need shade, water, some hard working Filipinos in the hole with you, and some good gloves. Larry and I bought all the students gloves while we were in Manila. They will definitely help with handling the rebar and shovel handles.

The CR's are then lined with cement blocks, a foundation and walls are poured on top and around the perimeter of the hole. This room is used both for using the toilet as well as taking bucket baths.

All the students are healthy. Besides building the CR's they are also helping screen for TB, which is very needed in the village. They are eating the meals with families and drinking coffee from nipa hut to nipa hut. Last night they had a church gathering for the young people and children. I heard it was fantastic!

The team will stay in the village until Sunday after church and then return to Tabuk. I think we will see posts from then again at that point.

Since last night's pictures didn't come through, I am going to post them again.


The pictures I posted yesterday of the village didn't come through, so I'll repeat yesterday's message below.

Chad

While In Pakak

Just wanted to check in here from Boise regarding the students. There is no Internet access in the village. I doubt we will hear anything until after thier time in Pakak is done and they are back in Tabuk. If I get a phone call or text message I will post an update.

For now, here are a few pictures from Pakak, including a picture of our nipa hut that the students are staying in (what a peaceful place!), one of Pastor Ernesto drinking coffee, and one of the village's rice fields.