This island nation was colonized by Spain in the sixteenth century, but then ceded to the United States in 1898, following the Spanish-American War.  The country became a self-governing commonwealth in 1935 and gained independence in 1946. The nation faces threats from Communist insurgents and Muslim separatists. Though the Filipino people predominantly profess Christianity, those Christians living in areas with significant influence from Muslim and Communist guerrilla organizations have faced threats, kidnapping and death.

Militant Muslim groups in the southern part of the country are intent on forming an Islamic state and persecution of Christians is increasingly common.  In November 2004, a convert from Islam was seriously wounded when he was shot.  He had previously received numerous death threats because of his conversion to faith in Christ. In February 2006, gunmen went through a village on Jolo island, asking the residents if they were Christians.  Those who confessed faith in Jesus were shot.  Six died and another five seriously wounded.

Communist insurgents have also been responsible for the intimidation, kidnapping and killing of Christians.  Communist rebels are suspected in the shooting death of an Alliance pastor and his wife in February 2006.

• Pray that Christians in the Muslim dominated areas of southern Philippines will be a testimony of God's love and grace in the midst of the opposition they face.
• Pray that the Filipino authorities will be able to effectively stop the Muslim and Communist guerrilla organizations operating in the country