Subject: Reconnecting across time and differences

Dear Portales and Yabes relatives,

I hope this message finds each of you well, wherever you may be in the world. It has been far too long since we last spoke, and my heart feels heavy with the weight of all the moments we've missed together.

As the years have passed, life has taken us on separate journeys, and in the busyness of it all, we have grown distant from one another. But today, I am reaching out with an earnest desire to bridge that gap, to rekindle the bonds that tie us together as relatives.

Though we may have differing political views and beliefs, and our paths may diverge in countless ways, I believe that the love and kinship we share transcend these differences. Our relatives are a tapestry woven from the threads of our shared history, laughter, and tears. It is a bond that cannot be broken by time or distance, by disagreement or discord.

Life is too short to let our differences keep us apart. Let us set aside any grievances or misunderstandings that may have arisen between us and embrace the opportunity to reconnect. Let us celebrate the gift of relatives and cherish the moments we have together, for they are precious and fleeting.

I long to hear your voices, to see your faces, and to share in the joys and sorrows of life once more. Please know that my door is always open, and my heart always ready to welcome you back into my life.

May we find the courage to let go of the past and embrace the beauty of the present, united in love and solidarity as relatives.

With all my love,
Gerry

Mother's day is everyday

Great are mothers for humanity, they should not only be remembered for one day.” — Bro. Eli Soriano

Mother's day holds a special place within the Members Church of God International (MCGI), where the reverence and appreciation for mothers transcend a single day of celebration. In the heart of MCGI, mothers are cherished, honored, and loved not just on Mother's Day but every day of the year.

Within this congregation, Mother's Day becomes an occasion to amplify the love and gratitude towards mothers. It's a time when members come together to express their deep appreciation for the invaluable role mothers play in their lives and in the community.

During Mother's Day celebrations in different communities, heartfelt messages of love and appreciation flood the congregation. Brethren and children alike take the opportunity to convey their gratitude to God for blessing them with the presence of their mothers. These expressions of love go beyond mere words; they reflect the profound impact mothers have on shaping the faith, values, and character of their families and the Church.

Each message shared on Mother's Day reflects not only the bond between a child and their mother but also the spiritual connection within the community. It's a time for reflection, celebration, and thanksgiving for the love, sacrifices, and guidance that mothers provide.

In the church, Mother's Day isn't just about honoring biological mothers; it's also about recognizing the nurturing spirit that extends to spiritual mothers within the congregation. Elderly women who have mentored and guided younger members in their faith journey are also celebrated and appreciated.

Ultimately, Mother's Day in the congregation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of maternal love, care, and wisdom in the lives of individuals and the spiritual growth of the Church as a whole. It's a day to honor the embodiment of selflessness, strength, and grace that mothers exemplify, not just on one designated day, but every day of the year.

City of Ilagan Hymn

Lyrics by Nilo Agustin

Music by Ato del Rosario

Vocalist: Samuel Acosta

I
Hail! Our beloved homeland
The City of Ilagan
Bestowed with the bounty of the rivers and the streams
Shielded by the mountains of Sierra Madre

You are the heart of our noble farmers
The abode of our culture and traditions
The home of loving and gentle people
That lives proudly with dignity

II
You will always be our peaceful home
The cradle of Ilagueño’s home
You shall blossom, flourish for our vision
As the Liveable City of Ilagan

God bless the City of Ilagan
The cherished legacy of our forefathers
Our home, our land, our beloved homeland
The Liveable City of Ilagan!

The "City of Ilagan Hymn" is a poignant musical homage crafted for the esteemed Ilagueño populace and their dynamic urban center. Infused with verses that echo the storied past and vibrant traditions of Ilagan, this hymn encapsulates the profound pride and communal ethos that characterize the city. Through its stirring lyrics and melodies, it exalts the splendor of Ilagan, its breathtaking landscapes, and the genuine warmth of its inhabitants. Serving as a unifying anthem, it fosters a profound sense of unity and belonging among Ilagueños while nurturing a deep respect for the city's rich heritage and enduring legacy.

An open letter to Ilagueños

Dear fellow Ilagueños,

Today, May 4, 2024, as we commemorate the founding anniversary of our dear city, let us pause to consider the path that has united us. Our city's history is intertwined with tenacity, cohesion, and steadfast spirit, from the modest beginnings of Ilagan in 1686 to the colorful and prosperous city we are today.

As we commemorate this momentous anniversary every year, we embrace the prospects of the future while also paying tribute to the past. Let us honor the memories of our forefathers, whose toil and devotion set the groundwork for our city. Let's also commemorate the victories and advancements we have made as a team, led by the values of unity and collaboration.

Let's reaffirm our commitment to creating a better future for Ilagan as we come together to celebrate this significant occasion. Let's keep collaborating to promote diversity, creativity, and sustainable growth in our neighborhood.

I hope that this foundation anniversary will serve as a constant reminder of our common history, our power as a group, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. Let us write the next chapter of Ilagan's history with pride, enthusiasm, and determination as a team.

Happy Founding Anniversary, Ilagan!

With warm regards,

Gerry Yabes

Salary increase is not a solution, here's why

When Senator Risa Hontiveros said that the salary increase is good news, she thinks that she's already brilliant if she finally gets want she want? She thinks that she's doing her job in the Senate? Even if we add thousands of pesos for the minimum wage in the whole country, nothing much will change. The unfortunate workers and the public in general will still be stuck in the vicious restrictive economic environment.

The move to this increase in the minimum wage will result to the reduction of manpower of local businesses that can't afford the increase. Hontiveros, being a co-sponsor needs to hear the side of small entrepreneurs first.

In our country where competition is limited, simply increasing salaries may not be an effective solution for several reasons. Proponents of this measure should consider these reasons why:

• Cost Constraints: Many businesses, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), may struggle to afford significant salary increases due to tight profit margins and financial constraints. Increasing salaries without corresponding increases in revenue could lead to higher operating costs and potential layoffs or business closures.
• Inflationary Pressures: Salary increases without corresponding improvements in productivity or profitability can contribute to inflationary pressures. This can erode the purchasing power of consumers, especially those on fixed incomes, and exacerbate socio-economic inequalities. NEDA reported that salary increase will affect inflation.
• Lack of Productivity Gains: In a market with limited competition, businesses may not face sufficient pressure to improve efficiency, invest in innovation, or enhance productivity. Without productivity gains, increasing salaries could strain company resources without yielding commensurate benefits.
• Skill Mismatch: Simply raising salaries may not address underlying issues related to skills gaps or mismatches between the qualifications of workers and the demands of available jobs. Investing in education, training, and workforce development programs may be more effective in addressing these challenges.
• Competitiveness Concerns: In industries where international competition is a factor, unilaterally increasing salaries without corresponding improvements in productivity or quality could erode the competitiveness of Philippine businesses in global markets. Our country should focus reforms in the economic policies, specialy in opening our country to foreign investors who can bring job opportunities and higher salaries here.

Instead of relying solely on salary increases, policymakers (like Risa Hontiveros, Juan Miguel Zubiri, etc.) and businesses should pursue a multifaceted approach to address labor market challenges and promote sustainable economic growth. This may include improving the business environment to foster competition, investing in infrastructure and technology to enhance productivity, promoting skills development and education, and implementing targeted social welfare programs to support vulnerable workers.

To present a better solution to this, is to have our economy open to Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) through economic charter change. NEDA said that we could have attracted investments if only Philippines is more open. Doing so, the increase in salary comes naturally even without legislation which is just a waste of people's tax money. This will make our country attrative to foreign investors. Doing so, the increase of salary will follow naturally without making a legislation. It's just simple as Law of Supply and Demand, in case these Senators don't know it.

Beat the hot weather this heat season

Experiencing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in the Philippines can be extremely challenging, as it poses health risks and issues such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are some suggestions for staying safe and cool in areas where temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius as follows.

1. Drink plenty of water. Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go.
2. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages: Limit consumption of caffeinated drinks and sugary sodas, as they can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water, coconut water, or electrolyte-rich drinks instead.
3. Eat hydrating foods. Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and strawberries, to help replenish fluids and electrolytes.
4. Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton to help keep your body cool. Light-colored clothing can also help reflect sunlight.
5. Stay indoors during peak hours: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
6. Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming.
7. Take cool showers. Cool off by taking frequent showers or baths with lukewarm or cool water. This can help lower your body temperature and provide relief from the heat.
8. Use fans or air conditioning. If available, use fans or air conditioning to help cool indoor spaces. If you don't have access to air conditioning, use portable fans or create cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors.
9. Rest and relax. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and relax in a cool, shaded area. Avoid strenuous activities that can lead to overheating and exhaustion.
10. Monitor your health. Be mindful of signs of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and excessive sweating. If you experience any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately.

Utilize fans or air conditioning to cool indoor spaces and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to help regulate body temperature. Plan outdoor activities wisely, scheduling them for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Take frequent cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature and stay informed about weather forecasts and heat advisories issued by local authorities.

Check on vulnerable persons, such as the elderly and those with health conditions, and make sure they stay cool and hydrated. If temperatures are excessively high, consider staying indoors in a cool, air-conditioned environment until conditions improve. By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat and stay safe during hot weather conditions in our country.

MCGI starts mass indoctrination this April 2024

Are you searching for spiritual enlightenment? Do you seek to understand the pure doctrines of the Lord Jesus Christ? Look no further!

We are thrilled to invite you to join us for the MCGI Mass Indoctrination, a series of enlightening sessions where you can delve into the profound teachings of our faith. Whether you're a seeker, a skeptic, or a devout believer, everyone is welcome to participate in this journey of discovery.

At MCGI (Members Church of God International), we uphold the values of truth, love, and compassion. Through our Mass Indoctrination program, you will have the opportunity to explore the foundational principles of our faith, guided by the teachings of the Holy Scriptures.

Here's what you can expect from the MCGI Mass Indoctrination:

• Engaging sessions led by servants and workers who will share insights into the Word of God.
• A welcoming and supportive community where you can freely ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions.
• Accessible sessions available on different Social Media Platforms, catering to various languages for your convenience.

Whether you're seeking answers to life's big questions or simply curious about our beliefs, we invite you to join us on this journey of spiritual growth and understanding.

To register and learn more about the MCI Mass Indoctrination schedule, please visit our website www.mcgi.org or follow us on Facebook for updates.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the profound teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ and embark on a path towards greater spiritual fulfillment. We look forward to welcoming you to our sessions!