I arrived in the Philippines in September 2025 for a year of voluntary work, and discovered a fascinating country. My assignment is at the Assumption Language College (ALC), which mainly provides English courses to religious from Asia and Africa prior to their university studies. As part of the Philanthropic Development Office, I’m looking for sponsors to fund scholarships for congregations with limited means: a concrete way of serving.
At ALC, I’m struck by the joy and benevolence of the teachers. They have lunch with the students every day, monitor their progress carefully and, at events, take to the stage to give enthusiastically prepared performances. Their passionate commitment moves me; I wish I’d known such teachers when I was learning English. The students, determined and confident, are also a source of inspiration.
Living with the Augustinians of the Assumption is a grace. I share the daily life of brothers from the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, Korea, the Congo and Burkina Faso, united in their love for Christ. Our exchanges open me up to their cultures and strengthen my faith, even if I’m not always as assiduous as I’d like at services.
Their mission goes beyond ALC: management of the humanitarian association Kaloob and the local branch of Groupe Bayard, pastoral presence in the slums and at the hospital. I am particularly grateful to Brothers Ethiel and Peter, as well as Fathers Jojo, JB, Chris and Bernard, not forgetting the lay people involved with the Assumption who, with great generosity, helped me discover Philippine culture.
Discovering Manila takes some getting used to. One of the world’s most densely populated urban areas, marked by underdeveloped transport systems and constant traffic jams, can be tiring. And yet, its cultural sites and young, smiling population give it an endearing face. My mototaxi rides give me a real sense of freedom.
Visits to the slums also confront me with the harshness of living conditions, and remind me of the privilege that is mine and the call to serve the poorest. Beyond the capital, I discovered Palawan, the province of Bataan, Baguio and the rice fields of Banaue. Despite natural and economic challenges, the Philippines remains a bright country. For me, this year has been a school of humility, faith and gratitude.