Calabrians Main Page
SALIG
(vb.) ‘trust’, ‘believe’
I am Loren Jane E. Padla, 24 years old, and a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Education, Major in Criminology.
My journey in Calabrian Children’s Foundation (CCF) started in the year 2015. Back then, I was a just 14-year-old kid who wanted to live and survive. My parents cannot afford to provide us, their children, a decent living. We had to survive with a meager income that they can offer for our basic necessities. I remember I had to run through errands to support our family.
In God’s wondrous ways, He sent someone to lead me to the doorsteps of CCF. For more than a year of stay in CCF, I was nourished, loved, and cared for. CCF taught me how to be emotionally and spiritually strong amidst life’s challenges. Aside that they provided my basic needs, I was taught as well of the importance of having faith in God. Through daily prayers and participation to the holy eucharist, I lifted up my worries and anxieties to God. Though my stay in CCF was not that much long compared to other kids but for me that was one of the golden moments of my life. I will hold forever these memories deep in my heart.
Now, after some years of perseverance and hard work for my studies, I am now a proud college graduate. I run a small milk tea business in our barangay. I am a dedicated mother who wanted to instill the same values that I received in CCF to my child. As a single parent, I am able to provide the needs of my four-year old child. I am able to help my other siblings as well in their studies.
Looking back at the roller-coaster journey that I had in life, I am awed by how God orchestrated everything in according to His plan.
“I have nothing but my most heartfelt gratitude to all who became part of my journey.”
As I strive to achieve my goals, I am invited again and again to put my hope and trust in God. I know it will never be easy. But as Jesus said: “Everything is possible for the one who believes,” so I say: “Salig lang!”
Message to the children of CCF:
Life is not easy. But remember that life’s battles are not about the storms you face, but about the strength you find within yourself to rise above them. Keep pushing forward, stay resilient, and know that every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger. Your dreams are worth fighting for, and with courage, determination, and faith, you can overcome anything. Believe in yourself, and never give up on your aspirations. You are capable of achieving greatness. Don’t give up praying and hoping. God knows our needs even before we ask them.
