The Philippines has not yet achieved its economic and political potential. The nation has natural resources, democratic roots, and a well-educated population. But governments routinely fail to address serious economic and social issues that limit development. Half the population live in poverty. Tropical storms, floods, and landslides destroy lives and homes, especially in slums. Most farmers do not own land. High levels of corruption are scandalous, especially in Asia’s most Christianized nation! Pray for the Fellowship of Christians in Government, which promotes biblical standards among Christian public servants.

The Roman Catholic Church retains great influence, but needs to change as the country’s religious diversity increases. Some Catholics want to preserve the Church’s role in politics and society, and a few work to oppose Protestant or Independent movements. Recent surveys show that 15-30% of Catholics identify themselves as charismatic, and several new movements within Catholicism have committed evangelicals among them. Pray for God’s grace on these lively communities. For many Catholics, witchcraft or animism actually holds more influence over their lives than Christianity. They need the power of the true gospel.

Source: Joshua Project and Operation World