UMCOR supports tree-planting project in Philippines

United Methodists are planting native trees in a flood-prone area on the island of Palawan. The reforestation project is a joint venture between the United Methodist Committee on Relief and the Manila Episcopal Area. Bread of Life United Methodist Church in the area has flooded several times in the past, and residents hope the tree planting will result in a long-term solution. Jhoanna Ragasa, Cedric Sagun and John Rey Velasco report from the Philippines, with photos by Cheryl Regnim and Jerry Dumaya.

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News media contact: Julie Dwyer at newsdesk@umnews.org. To read more United Methodist news, subscribe to the free UM News Digest.

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Disaster Relief
Heavy rains accompanied by balls of ice destroyed the roof of Kuziva Stephen Makunike’s home during the Oct. 5 storm that swept through Masvingo town in southeastern Zimbabwe.  Estimates were yet to be made, but church members believe property damaged will need thousands of dollars to repair and rebuild.  Photo by Pastor Samuel Maunga, UM News.

Zimbabwe hailstorm destroys churches, homes

United Methodists in Masvingo town are counting their losses after a severe hailstorm smashed church properties and members’ homes.
Regional Conferences
Giovanni Tapang, a scientist and spokesperson of Advocates of Science and Technology for the People , speaks to an ecumenical gathering in Quezon City about the proposed Pax Silica development in New Clark City, Tarlac, and its possible implications for communities, Indigenous Peoples, natural resources and Philippine sovereignty. Photo by Donna Mae Delfin, National Council of Churches in the Philippines.

Filipino United Methodists question AI hub

The U.S.-led Pax Silica initiative promises massive economic and technological development for the Philippines, but faith leaders raised concerns about environmental impacts and who really benefits from the development.
Mission and Ministry
A member of a United Methodist Volunteers in Mission Disaster Response Team from Virginia works to clear a flood-damaged home in Western North Carolina during the days following Hurricane Helene in 2024. Photo by Lilla Marigza, UM News.

50 years of turning faith into action

From disaster zones to mission fields around the world, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission marks a half-century of making a difference.

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