Jonet Labustro

Pastor Jonet’s Testimony

My name is Jonet, and I grew up here in the Philippines. I have several siblings and am the second oldest in my family. When I was 12 years old, my parents separated which was hard for me to understand. When I graduated from elementary school, my mother sent me to live with my uncle, her brother. In Zamboanga De Sur I would help my uncle fish at night. I would sleep for about six hours and go to school the next day without a shower. During my first year of high school, I would walk without shoes or slippers 4 kilometers. I started drinking alcohol by the time I was fifteen years old.

It was when I began working as a gym instructor that I made some new friends who invited me to a mid-week church service. In April of 1996, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior and surrender my addictions and life to Him. I enrolled at the Cebu Korean School of Theology and am serving the Living God by His Grace.

In December 2017 Pastor Norberto from White Fields told me about the Carreta Chinese Cemetery ministry. He asked if I could lead the ministry starting in 2018. I accepted and am excited to share God’s Word but nervous because this is a challenging area. Currently, we have a children’s ministry on Saturday and Sunday, and a Church service at 8 am on Sunday.

Recent Ministry:

Juliet loves Jesus

Children with Skin disease

In Careta Cemetery, two children, Mina and Joon, suffered from painful skin diseases. Their family was too poor to afford a doctor or buy the necessary medicine, leaving the children in constant agony and unable to sleep well at night. Despite their misery, their parents could do little more than offer comforting words and homemade remedies that provided no relief. One day, a group of compassionate Korean volunteers visited the village, bringing medical supplies and much-needed care. Thanks to the kindness of these strangers, Mina and Joon finally began to heal and experience restful nights.

Sis Grace

Sis Grace is one of our regular attendees in the Careta cemetery ministry and always brings all her kids to the children’s ministry.  She washes other people’s clothes in exchange for money, and despite her busy schedule, she attended Bible studies.  For two Sundays, I did not see her in the church, only to find out that she was hospitalized for a miscarriage.   She had no money and was devastated about the loss of her baby.  God’s word reverberated in her mind enough to trust God fully in whatever things happen.  To God be all the glory, now she could overcome even the payment of the hospital bills. 

Police Unit open to God’s Word for detainees

I approached the police desk officer in Mabolo, Cebu, and asked if we could share God’s word with the detainees. The officer on duty gladly approved our request, and I shared God’s word with the twenty detainees. I knew these detainees were in confusion and life was in shambles, yet I claimed that God’s word would speak to them. Afterward, I distributed bread. 

Mother’s Day Cakes 

Every year, we celebrate Mother’s Day by giving them flowers, but this time, I decided to celebrate it by providing small cakes. Everyone was happy to receive a cake, but one mother cried when she received it. When I asked her about it, she said that for a long time, nobody had remembered all her sacrifices as a mother. She was relieved and happy because there was a Mother’s Day to recognize and honor mothers’ work. 

Worn-out clothes to New Shirts for Kids

Clothes for children in Careta may be the last priority for a mother to buy. They would prefer food for the family as their top priority. We praise the Lord because 100 children received shirts from our South Korean friends in May as a special gift. The kids immediately wore their shirts, thankful to receive at least one new shirt this year.  

Ministering to the Family of Bro. Boy

Bro. Boy is one of our attendees, and I ministered to him through prayers. Recently, he became sickly, and a home visit gave him a boost in his spirit. 

Pray for the encouragement and growth of Mothers and all attendees. Pray for the teens that they will surrender their life to Jesus. Pray for my trip to Manila to attend my son’s graduation.

Bro. Romel – Teaching and Dancing

Bro. Romel is a former colleague of mine from our time together in a security agency. Recently, while he was stationed as a security guard at the Cebu Chinese Cemetery, I witnessed a remarkable scene one Saturday morning. Bro. Romel actively taught dance moves and captivated the children with his storytelling skills. Another guard revealed that Bro. Romel had been his former colleague at the security agency, and he wanted to access a Bible. I invited him to our Fellowship Center, where he could obtain the desired Bibles. We journeyed to the center, where he recognized his former co-worker, Bro. Romel. In a gesture of support and encouragement, I gave them three New Testament Bibles to share with their fellow guards at the Chinese Cemetery. Before departing, I took the opportunity to share the message of salvation with Bro. Romel, who graciously accepted the Lord Jesus into his life. United in faith, we concluded our time with a prayer, grateful for the divine encounter and the transformative power of God’s Word. 

Generational Faith: A Mother’s Journey from Children’s Ministry

Sister Regine, a devoted mother from Surigao del Sur province, faithfully brings her two children to our Children’s Ministry every Saturday morning. When asked about her unwavering commitment to attending, she shared a touching story from her childhood in Mindanao. Regine recounted how her devout Christian grandmother instilled a love for attending church from a young age. Despite the challenges they faced, her grandmother made it a priority to bring her to Sunday school and Children’s Ministry regularly. These early experiences left an indelible mark on Regine’s heart, shaping her faith journey. Upon moving to Cebu City and settling near the Chinese Cemetery, Regine did not attend church initially. However, her perspective changed when her neighbors invited her to join the Children’s Ministry activities on the cemetery grounds. Recognizing the opportunity for her children to experience the same spiritual foundation she received, Regine eagerly embraced the invitation. While with the other mothers for a Bible study session, Regine was captivated by the teachings and revelations shared. Through these sessions, she discovered God’s love for her. From that moment on, Regine became an enthusiastic participant in our ministry, eagerly absorbing and applying the teachings to her life. Her journey is a testament to the enduring impact of generational faith and the transformative power of children’s ministry.

Story of Resilience and Divine Provision

Sister Maribel endured a devastating fire incident last January, leaving her family’s tiny house in ruins. Despite their best efforts, the reconstruction process was hindered by financial constraints, causing them to face uncertainty and challenges. However, amidst the adversity, they clung to faith and resilience, trusting in the Lord’s provision. Through fervent prayers and unwavering encouragement from their community, Maribel and her family persevered, holding onto hope for miraculous intervention. Their faith was soon rewarded when a local charity organization extended a helping hand, providing them with concrete hollow blocks and cement to kickstart the rebuilding process. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Maribel rejoiced at the unexpected blessing, seeing it as a tangible sign of God’s faithfulness. But the blessings didn’t end there. The following day, the city government stepped in, offering thick plywood for their flooring needs. Maribel couldn’t contain her joy and amazement, recognizing the divine orchestration behind each provision. In moments like these, she found solace in the assurance that God is indeed the ultimate provider, surpassing all expectations with His abundant grace and mercy.

Pray for the provision of musical instruments by the grace of God. Pray for upcoming water baptisms. Pray for my family – my wife Grace and my son Jairus. Pray for the spiritual growth of the teenagers volunteering in children’s ministry. Pray for God’s protection, especially considering the high temperatures we are experiencing.

A Ray of Hope: Reaching Out to Kyla and Her Family

During the monthly children’s ministry at CCT (Center for Community Transportation), I noticed a child walking into the church barefoot under the scorching mid-morning sun. It was around ten thirty, and my heart went out to the child. After learning her name, Kyla, a 4-year-old with no siblings, I observed her listening intently to her teacher. Moved by her situation, I quickly purchased a pair of slippers for her, but she was too shy to accept them. Fortunately, one of the youth leaders in the children’s ministry was their neighbor, so I decided to visit their home. Upon approaching her mother, who seemed hesitant, I learned that she worked as a waitress in a nightclub while her father had been imprisoned in Cebu City jail for over two years. I offered prayers and encouragement, urging them to trust the Lord Jesus for strength and guidance.

Weekly Youth Training with Bro Dabie and Sister Mariella

Every Saturday at eleven o’clock, Brother Dabie and Sister Mariella, both esteemed church members, lead our youth training sessions. Brother Dabie, a former Operation Mobilization (O.M.) volunteer, was the youth camp director and trainer. He continues to dedicate his time to training teens and youth in our Chinese Cemetery ministry. Sister Mariella, a former O.M. volunteer and scholar, brings her children’s and youth ministry expertise. Together, they offer well-rounded training sessions, drawing from their experiences with Operation Mobilization. After conducting their children’s ministry, they convene for youth training and ministry sessions, empowering our young members with valuable skills and knowledge. Pray for musical instruments in the church. 

A Chance for Redemption: Jeralyn’s Encounter with Consequences and Faith

Jeralyn resided next to the church building, and one morning, amidst a police chase involving drug buyers, a drug addict sought refuge in her home. Subsequently, the police arrested the intruder, and Jeralyn, too, was taken into custody and detained at the Ayala Police substation, designated for female offenders. While conducting Bible studies at the substation, I was surprised to encounter her. Jeralyn candidly shared her story with me, admitting that her lack of commitment to God had led to her current predicament. She acknowledged her past mistakes and expressed remorse, realizing the consequences of her actions. Encouraging her, I reminded her that God grants second chances. Jeralyn attentively participated in our Bible studies at the substation, where she received visits from her grandchildren and regular attendees of our children’s ministry on Saturday mornings.

A Journey of Redemption: Rance 999’s Encounter with Grace

Rance 999, a renowned vlogger, singer, and rapper in Cebu Province, gained popularity for his concerts across Visayas and Mindanao. However, during one concert in Cebu City, a drunken foreigner caused a disturbance, leading to a confrontation that resulted in Rance 999 shooting the individual. Following the incident, Rance 999, accompanied by his manager, surrendered to the authorities. Held at the Mabolo Police Station, he found himself among detainees when I conducted a Bible study for them. Unaware of his presence, I shared the Word of God, focusing on the message of forgiveness and redemption in Romans 6:23. Upon hearing the scripture, Rance 999 was visibly moved, nearly in tears. I emphasized God’s love and forgiveness for all sinners who genuinely repent. After the session, I gave the detainees New Testament Bibles and bread. Later, Rance 999 reached out to me, seeking prayer and guidance. Returning to the station, I prayed with him, encouraging him to accept Jesus into his life and seek forgiveness. I assured him that God offers second chances to those who repent sincerely. Encouraged by his desire for change, I urged him to seek solace in the Christian community once incarcerated in Cebu City Jail.

Prayer for an Assaulted Teen

When I arrived at the Ayala Police Sub Station, there was a young teenager, fourteen years old, who was a victim of gang rape. I approach the Police Officers to ask to share a Bible study with her mother. I shared the Book of Ephesians chapter 6:1-3. I prayed for them, and they accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.  Pray that the victim will overcome her nightmares from the traumatic experience. Pray that God touches the hearts of the accused teenagers and their parents. Pray also that truth and justice will prevail. 

Fire in Careta Cemetery

On January 6, 2024, a fire broke out at the rear section of Cebu Chinese Cemetery in Sitio Kalapukan, Barangay Carreta. The blaze ignited shortly after 10 p.m., originating from one of the makeshift dwellings. Panic ensued among the residents, who hastily gathered their children and essential belongings before fleeing to safety, fearing the flames might engulf them. Approximately 155 families fell victim to this devastating fire incident. Due to the narrow pathways, fire trucks could not access the area, prompting local men to assist firefighters in maneuvering and directing the fire hose toward the inferno. After nearly twenty minutes of intense effort, the blaze was controlled just before eleven o’clock that night. These harrowing accounts come directly from the survivors of the fire, many of whom managed to salvage only a few articles of clothing and supplies for their children. Among the affected families, approximately twenty are affiliated with a local church. Miraculously, there were no fatalities reported from this tragic incident, a testament to divine providence. The displaced families have found temporary refuge within the Barangay complex, where they reside in makeshift shelters and tents as they work to rebuild their lives.

Prayer requests:

Pray for the fire victims that they can start a new life. Pray also that God will touch people to help the fire victims.

Enriching Children’s Ministry

These students from CKC-SOT (Cebu Korean Church School of Theology) are church leaders under Pastor Cris Paño at Mambaling Church and are actively involved in the children’s ministry. Two leaders, accompanied by their assistants, dedicate their time to teaching and uplifting the children in the community. They regularly visit the children in their humble dwellings, encouraging them to participate in the Saturday morning children’s ministry sessions. Str. Carmie and her assistant cater to children aged four to eight years old. Their sessions include storytelling, coloring activities, singing, and learning short memory verses, all designed to engage the children in interactive ways. Meanwhile, Str. Estela and her assistant focus on children aged nine to fourteen, emphasizing dancing activities alongside memory verse recitations. Their approach ensures that the children actively participate and enjoy the learning process.

Redemption Behind Bars: A Morning at Mabolo Police Station

One morning, as I visited the Mabolo Police Station to share the message of God, I spoke to over twenty detainees, including one who happened to be the son of a former church member. It was startling to find him among the detainees, arrested for involvement in illegal gambling at the Chinese Cemetery shanties one evening. He had previously served time in Cebu City Jail. Drawing from the Book of Acts, specifically chapter 16:30-31, I recounted the story of Apostles Paul and Silas, who found themselves imprisoned yet found solace in their faith. After sharing this message, I urged the detainees to emulate the jailer who sought salvation, encouraging them to surrender their lives entirely to the Lord.  To my joy, they accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior, embracing the hope of a second chance in life. I prayed for them, asking God to grant them this new beginning.

Empowered Mothers: Growing Together in Faith and Fellowship

This Group of Mothers Engages in Bible Study Every Saturday Morning. For almost three Saturdays, we changed our venue outside the church building. We started with only ten attendees since we initiated this Mother’s Bible Study in the middle of the year. However, as of now, there are thirty attendees.

Initially, they hesitated to pray and read the Bible, but now they willingly participate in opening and closing prayers. After our Bible study, the leaders from Cebu Korean Church (CKC) generously provided food packs and a Happy Meal from Jollibee to each mother who attended the Bible study.

Hopeful Gifts: A Christmas Blessing for Lisa and Thelma, Our Church Leaders

Lisa and Thelma, two church leaders, received a special Christmas privilege from CKC (Cebu Korean Church). Each Christmas, CKC generously gives gifts to our church leaders. This year, Rhue selected nine church members to receive gifts, each containing a bag of groceries.

Str. Lisa, a regular attendee at our Wednesday evening prayer meetings, has faced challenges since her husband was incarcerated in August on drug-related charges. Left to support her two daughters and one grandson alone, she makes a living selling snacks inside the cemetery and occasionally taking up laundry services for well-known families in the village.

She was thrilled to learn about the opportunity to receive a gift from CKC and arrived early at the church. She was deeply moved and almost brought to tears when she received the gift full of groceries.

Joyful Outreach: CKC’s Heart-warming Visit to Chinese Cemetery

The deacons of CKC and Associate Pastor Woon Woo Yoon contacted me, expressing their intention to visit the Chinese Cemetery and provide food for 150 children. On Friday morning, they arrived and brought Jollibee Happy Meals.

Before commencing the program, Associate Pastor Woon Woo Yoon and one of the deacons shared their testimonies, recounting their challenging lives in South Korea. Pastor Woon Woo Yoon encouraged the children to continue listening to the Word of God and always pray.

Following their testimonies, teen leaders presented songs and dances. After the program, Pastor Woon Woo Yoon and the church deacons distributed Happy Meals to the children. The children were overjoyed, enjoying their meals, and each one received a Happy Meal to take home. The parents were delighted with the special treat their children received.

Touching Lives: A Gift of Medication Brings Joy to Grandmother Encar

Pastor Yoon brought medicine for hypertension and gave it to me.  In one of my visitations, I noticed that Grandmother Encar did not attend worship service consistently as before.  When I asked her, she told me she did not feel well due to hypertension.  I gave her the bottle of medicine to her.  She was so blessed to receive her answered prayer.

Prayer Requests:

Pray for God’s provision for the paints to be used for painting and beautifying church buildings. Pray for the musical instruments for the church. Pray for the growth and maturity of the church members. Pray for God’s provision and safe travel in January 2024. Pray that the parents of the children will commit their lives to the Lord. Pray that we can avail an installation of electricity in the church.

Michael used to run away from the Sunday gatherings when he was in his teens. Because of wrong decisions he made, he was put in prison for six years. It was in jail that he was able to hear God’s Words. I shared with him and his cell mates once a week.  Now that he is on parole, we praise the Lord that he already has a job.

• Pray for Michael’s spiritual growth.
• Pray for the continuous study of God’s Word by Michael and his family.

Mayjean used to attend church in her teens. After graduating from high school, she moved to a different place. After some time, she returned to our area with her child and is struggling with marital problems. At first, she was hesitant to attend church again, but with constant encouragement, she started to attend the worship service.

Every Saturday, the Children’s ministry leaders hold a meeting. We discussed how to improve the ministry and how we can increase the children’s growth. We thank the Lord because a friend blessed us with a free meal for the leaders. After the simple meal, everyone was happy and felt blessed by the reminder that God honors our service.

We are thankful for our senior pastor and leaders’ opportunity to visit the ministry in the Chinese Cemetery. The members of the church had the opportunity to hear testimonies of how lives were changed, and many attendees raised their hands in a visible acceptance of Jesus into their lives. We praise the Lord for God’s work in the lives of our members. We also enjoyed a simple meal and fellowship together.

Three known thieves in the community always lined up to receive snacks. One day we tried to engage them in conversation and with time, we shared God’s love to them. They were very hesitant at first, but with constant encouragement became more open to God’s Word. We thank God for dealing with these men.

• Pray that they will have a change of heart and accept God’s gift of salvation and love for them.

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