Philippines: Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Mark Three Decades of Service in Oriental Mindoro

The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), also known as the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco, gathered with friends, benefactors, alumni, and the faithful on November 15 at Don Bosco Hall, Mary Help of Christians School, Inc. in Oriental Mindoro to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their mission in the region.

“The warmth and presence of everyone who joined made the occasion profoundly special, a living testimony of communion and gratitude,” said Sr. Leila M. Montero, FMA, technical directress.

The celebration began with an Eucharistic Mass presided over by Bishop Moises M. Cuevas, Apostolic Vicar of Calapan, and concelebrated by Bishop Buenaventura M. Famadico, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of San Pablo, together with diocesan priests. “Their presence reminded us of the Church’s enduring support and the spiritual roots of this mission,” Sr. Montero added.

During the “Balik Tanaw” (Looking Back) portion of the program, the community revisited the beginnings of the Mother Morano Community. From its early years, when catechism was brought to parishes and public schools, and Christian formation was offered to the poor and marginalized youth, the mission has grown into a beacon of hope for the Vicariate of Calapan, the Mangyan communities, and countless out-of-school youth.

The day was filled with messages, testimonies, and vibrant cultural presentations highlighting the legacy of the Salesian Sisters. “Each moment reflected the joys, challenges, and triumphs of three decades of service, sustained by God’s providence and the maternal guidance of Mary, Help of Christians,” said Montero.

“I am amazed and truly blessed to have been part of this community. In my almost two years here, I have learned so much. I gained conviction and courage to keep fighting in the right way and to remain grateful each day. A simple ‘thank you’ is not enough to express my gratitude for the 30 years of love and hope you have given every young person you have cared for and served,” shared intern trainee Irma M. Bunrino.

Mission and Hope

In June 1995, the Philippine Province of St. Mary Mazzarello opened a new mission, the Mother Morano Community in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro.

“At the dawn of this mission, the Universal Church was shepherded by Pope John Paul II, with Cardinal Sin serving as Archbishop of Manila, and President Fidel Ramos leading the nation. At that time, the invitation of Bishop Warlito Cajandig (who passed away last month) gave birth to this new mission,” said Montero.

“The community was established to bring Christian formation to the poor youth of Mindoro, to impart catechism in parishes and public schools, and to be a living witness of God’s love. From its earliest days, the Salesian Sisters sought to embody the charism of St. John Bosco and St. Mary Mazzarello: to educate with love, to evangelize with joy, and to uplift the dignity of the young, especially the marginalized.”

Over the past three decades, the Sisters have walked with the youth of Mindoro, offering education, catechesis, and livelihood opportunities. They have reached out to Mangyan communities, ensuring that indigenous youth are empowered to embrace both their culture and their faith. They have welcomed out-of-school youth, giving them a second chance to learn, grow, and dream.

Looking Forward with Renewed Spirit

“This mission has not been without trials, yet God’s goodness has always sustained it. Each challenge became an opportunity to deepen trust in Divine Providence. Each success became a reminder that the mission is not the Sisters’ alone, but God’s work unfolding through them,” said Montero.

As the Sisters look back with immense gratitude, they also look forward with renewed spirit and unwavering commitment. “The 30th Jubilee is not only a celebration of the past but also a call to continue the mission of education, evangelization, and empowerment, to nurture faith, dignity, and creativity among the youth of Mindoro and beyond.”

“This anniversary stands as a tangible sign of God’s hope and generosity, a reminder that the mission entrusted to the Salesian Sisters remains alive and fruitful,” Montero added.

“It is touching and inspiring to look back on the determination of the first Sisters who boldly began the mission in 1995. They planted seeds that continue to bear fruit. As one of the beneficiaries of this mission, who I am today and what I have achieved stand as proof of their service. Even if some of the Sisters who once served in Mindoro could not attend, their absence was filled by the presence of bishops, priests, and the entire community,” said Liza Nazaro, trainer and MHCS agriculturist.