Letters of Impact: Pastor Edz’s Story from the Philippines

Ashland Watson
2d
3 min read

Here at Mosaic International, we believe in the power of local churches to be the hands and feet of Jesus, and that belief comes to life through the courageous leaders we serve around the world.

In our last Letters of Impact series post, we heard from Pastor Kendi in Rwanda and the incredible work she and her husband are leading through the Fatherhood Sanctuary. Today, we turn to the Philippines, where Pastor Edelyn “Edz” Balaguer shares how God is moving and working to transform lives, strengthen churches, and bring hope to the next generation.

Meet Pastor Edz

On March 19, 2025, Pastor Edelyn “Edz” Balaguer shared a heartfelt testimony of how God is moving in the Philippines to transform lives through Mosaic International’s partnership.

Serving abroad for six years, Pastor Edz has seen her church grow stronger in discipleship, outreach, and community support because of faithful partners like Mosaic.

“With help and support, even food and clothing you have given, it has become a part of meeting the needs of our church. I have witnessed how you have supported our pastor, Pastor Edwin. Without your help, we might not be able to get our organization to be more effective. God has used you so that the visions the Lord showed us may be fulfilled.”

Through the Dream Center in Tabaco City, Albay, young people are finding hope and opportunity. From free computer access and job training to scholarships that open the door to education, these programs are changing the trajectory of entire families.

As Pastor Edz says, these efforts are not only meeting needs, they are igniting faith, boldness, and a vision for the future.

Pastor Edz Letter of Impact

Mosaic International's Work in the Philippines

The Philippines, made up of more than 7,000 islands, is home to 108 million people. Known for resilience and joy, the nation also faces significant challenges:

19.8% of the population lives below the poverty line
Over 261,000 people are trapped in modern slavery
Education remains out of reach for many families

Despite these challenges, God is moving. Mosaic International partners with Pastors Edwin & Jo Dueñas, who have been serving faithfully since 2001. From large-scale medical missions to typhoon relief in partnership with the Philippine Navy and Army, their ministry has reached thousands with both practical care and the hope of the Gospel.

At the center of this work is the Dream Center, a hub for education, discipleship, and refuge during times of crisis. Here, children and teens find safety, families receive food distribution, and entire communities are strengthened. Learn more about the work in the Philippines and Pastor Edwin and Jo here.

Building a Brighter Future: The New Student Center

Recently, Mosaic International was awarded a grant to build a new Student Center at the Dream Center in Tabaco City. This expansion will give students a safe, dedicated space to study, learn, and be mentored. It’s more than just a building, it’s an investment in the next generation of leaders who will rise up to transform their communities and live out God’s purposes.

This grant represents the power of partnership: donors, local leaders, and God’s vision working together to create lasting change. We hope to have an update and groundbreaking date soon, subscribe to our newsletter here to stay up to date.

Living Out Romans 8:28

Pastor Edz closed her letter with her life verse:

“In all things, I work for the Lord. And I know that He has a purpose for me.” – Romans 8:28

Her story is a reminder the work being done in the Philippines are about more than programs or projects. They are about people, leaders, students, families, who are discovering that God has not forgotten them. Together, we are part of this unfolding story of hope.

Be Part of the Impact

Mosaic International believes that every act of generosity creates ripples of transformation. You can:

Give once to help expand the Dream Center and the daily operation of the Student Center once it opens.
Join The Circle, our monthly giving community, to sustain long-term impact
Pray for Pastor Edz, Pastors Edwin & Jo, the Sherman family and the many churches leading change across the Philippines