I am Mary Joy Bulawan, and I am 25 years old. I work as a data analyst for a BPO company in Makati City. When I first started high school, I thought it would be the most difficult time of my life. Because my family was poor, I began working at the age of 13 to provide for my own needs, such as my daily allowance. My life was not easy during those times. At a young age, all I wanted to do was to help my parents. I didn't consider going to college then; all I knew was that after I graduated, I wanted to help my family financially. I want to work, no matter how challenging it is. However, the Lord is truly amazing. He didn't leave my dreams there. He has a better plan for my life. Kapatid Ministry Inc. decided to take part in changing my life by supporting me to study in college. They took me to a school where I could study, which is known as ASHTEC (AMG Skilled Hands Technological College)—the school that changed my life so much and taught me so much both personally and spiritually.

My life inside the school was also not easy. Because it is far from my home, I will have to live alone for two years without my family. You will be alone with your fellow student, who is also from a different place. I was homesick during my first week at school because that was the first time in a long time I had been separated from my family. But as always, God is so good. He gave me a lot of people who sympathized with me when I was sad and feeling lonely. I grew accustomed to it as the day progressed. I also became part of a ministry called Prayer Warrior, which became a way to deepen my relationship with the Lord. I can say that living at ASHTEC was the best experience for me. I had a lot of fun, learned a lot, and believed that God had a better plan for my life.

But as always, God is so good. He gave me a lot of people who sympathized with me when I was sad and feeling lonely. I grew accustomed to it as the day progressed. I also became part of a ministry called Prayer Warrior, which became a way to deepen my relationship with the Lord.

I began working after a few months. Finally, I have my own money, and I can assist my family. I thought that once I got a job, we would no longer have to suffer. But when the pandemic hit, each day became more difficult and frightening. I am the only one working because my father is elderly and unable to work. We were still struggling financially because my salary was not very high. Thankfully, many people helped us, such as those who donated relief goods.

My father died in 2021, not because of COVID-19 but because his lungs had become weak since he was in his 40s. I lost a father who was always there for me. The father who is always by my side when I'm sick; the father who always apologizes for not being able to meet our needs. I know that even though it was extremely difficult for him to fight the pain he was experiencing, he still fought for us. He wished for us to be happy and have a good life. He was such a great husband to my mother and a wonderful father to us. Yes, he did not even cater to our needs. But he surrounded us with his love. When I lost my father, I got depressed and lonely. I ended up crying all night, hoping that God would take me where my father is. I even questioned God, “Why me?” “Why does it always have to be me?” Yes, I'm ready for that, but it was so painful to lose someone you love. I constantly question God, but He always has an answer. I don't know why—maybe because of his Holy Spirit—but despite questioning God, I still run to Him, cry to Him, and tell Him about my problems. I gradually surrendered all the pain I was going through to God. Little by little, the thorn in my heart disappeared, and I also accepted everything. I know that my father is in the hands of the Lord, and he is in peace and joy. He will no longer suffer in this world. I hope and pray that this pandemic will soon end. And for everyone who suffers because of this pandemic, I hope that they can cope. I am certain that this pandemic has taught us a lot—that everything happens for a reason. I know it is difficult, but I know we can handle it because the Lord is with us. Also, I pray for everyone who is going through a difficult time and feels they can't go on. Just keep in mind that we can always rely on God in times of need. Always pray and give everything to God.

I constantly question God, but He always has an answer. I don't know why—maybe because of his Holy Spirit—but despite questioning God, I still run to Him, cry to Him, and tell Him about my problems.

I am deeply grateful to the Kapatid Ministry, Inc. I would not be able to attend college if it weren't for them. I am thankful to them because I experienced being a college student, had good friends, and had deep faith in the Lord through ASHTEC. I thank God for touching the hearts of those who work on this program that helps the poor, including myself and many others. I hope that KMI will help more people like me. I hope you are well and that you always put God first in your life. I hope that this testimony will help people overcome all of their pain and suffering.

God bless everyone.