RISE Tayo
RISE Tayo: Stories of Filipino Resilience and Calling is a faith-rooted podcast that celebrates the courage, grit, and grace of Filipino immigrants chasing their God-given purpose. Hosted by Blanche DiDomenico, a proud Filipino-American nurse, life coach, and faith-based encourager, this show features heartfelt stories of kababayans who rose from humble beginnings, overcame cultural challenges, and stepped into their calling.
Whether you’re navigating life in a new land, overcoming adversity, or still discovering your purpose, these inspiring testimonies will remind you: You are not alone, and you were born to rise.
Join us every week as we share real stories, powerful reflections, and transformational conversations grounded in faith, Filipino culture, and the RISE framework—Resilience, Impact, Service, and Empowerment.
RISE Tayo
Jesus Heals: How Missionaries Bring Hope to Trafficked Children in Cebu, Philippines
In this powerful Rise Tayo episode, we feature missionaries John and Kelli Williford, who serve at a long-term aftercare home in Cebu, Philippines for children rescued from sexual exploitation and trafficking.
Their journey is a story of obedience, sacrifice, and deep love for the Filipino people.
From the United States to the heart of Cebu, they followed God’s calling to serve the most vulnerable—children who were hurt by exploitation, abuse, and extreme poverty. In 2010, they sold everything they owned, raised support through churches, and moved their young family to the Philippines to become full-time missionaries.
Today, more than 50 Filipino children are being cared for through a holistic, faith-centered program that includes:
• Education and school support
• Counseling and trauma healing
• Art and skills training
• Court assistance and family care
• Worship services and discipleship
• Safe housing, medical care, and daily structure
In this episode, you’ll hear how simple acts of motherly love opened the door to healing for two sisters who arrived at the home traumatized and withdrawn—and how they are now thriving teenagers with hope and purpose.
You’ll also hear the Willifords share their love for the Filipino culture—your warmth, hospitality, compassion, and resilience—and why they believe the Philippines holds a unique place in God’s heart.
This episode is not only a testimony—it is a call to action.
For Filipino listeners, sponsors, churches, and faith-driven leaders:
You can be part of changing lives right here in our nation.
🙏 You can support, partner, or donate through their website:
https://hhcr.org/
“But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.’” — Matthew 19:14