A Christian aid agency recognized for peace efforts in the Philippines.

Philippines (MNN)–In the Philippines, the government’s longstanding fight with the rebel insurgency remains a thorn in its side.

Communist guerrillas are leaching government resources away, despite battlefield losses over the past year, the military says.

Because the government is trying to put down suspected terrorist activity, distraction plays a key role in the rebel’s success.

As poverty deepens due to the fighting, Operation Blessing has been responding to needs throughout the worst of the insecurities.

The result of their efforts, gratitude for their work. For the second year in a row, Filipino President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo recognized OB Philippines as the “NGO of the Year for Peace Efforts” OB’s Deb Benson explains, “It’s primarily for their year-round efforts in promoting peace, especially in the rebel strongholds of the southern Philippines, and that’s where Operation Blessing has been conducting humanitarian medical missions.”

Benson says their teams are the hands and feet of Christ. “When we are out on the field, all our volunteers are just dedicated, compassionate Christians who are very interested in demonstrating God’s love in the compassion they show.”