My name is Don Japhet Teves, a Filipino, and living on the island of Negros. I have lived with my mother and father and a sister until I was 21 years old when my father passed away. At that point I had to take up more responsibility to help my mother in her small lunch pack business. I learned to cook and do other technical jobs helping my mother. My academic work in college

had to take a rest after my father died.

 

My desire has always been to be a professional athlete, but in the Philippines there is very little support for athletics and if you are not a wealthy family you are going to struggle. I did play on
the Philippine National Lacrosse Team that competed internationally. But sustaining the costs of training became difficult for our family. It has been a blessing that the opportunity to work with the Young Adult Volunteer program has come to me. Entering the programs of Silliman Water as a YAV gives me the opportunity to serve and learn. I have always had a calling to serve in communities like my own where clean water is scarce.

 

The learning is also meaningful for me as I continue to search and carve out God’s plan for my life. Working as a YAV this year will hold surprises and possibilities that I look forward to exploring and sharing with you and with God’s guidance.

 

 

Blessings, Don