As 2026 begins, I find myself reminded again of why God first stirred my heart for mission. It is not solely because of stages, crowds, or powerful moments. It is because of His faithfulness in the ordinary.
The early days of the year have been full of reflection and prayer. Conversations abound about where God is moving. He continues to call His people—especially the next generation—to live with purpose beyond themselves. I believe deeply in the impact of gatherings, training, and moments when God awakens hearts together. God often uses these spaces to ignite vision, courage, and obedience.
But I’m also reminded of something just as important:
Mission doesn’t live on spiritual highs alone. It lives in the quiet faithfulness of everyday life.
Before you continue reading, I invite you to pause for a moment. Take a breath. And pray this simple prayer:
“Lord, move by Your Spirit today. Move this week and this year. Do so in ways that will bring You glory and draw others to You.”
Mission isn’t just found in conferences, mission trips, or special events. It unfolds in the rhythm of our normal days.
It’s in the commute. It’s in the work shift. It’s in class. It’s at the gym. It’s over coffee. It’s at the dinner table with family.
Jesus’ words in the Great Commission remind us of this truth. When He said, “Go and make disciples of all nations,” He wasn’t only speaking about distant places. The heart of His message is ongoing—as you go, live as My witness.
As you go to work—love well. As you go to school—live faithfully. As you run errands—be present. As you gather with the church—be rooted. As you travel—be available.
This changes everything. It means our routines are not interruptions to God’s mission. They are the mission field.
One simple conversation. One act of kindness. One invitation. One prayer offered quietly.
God can use what feels small today to produce fruit that lasts for eternity. We never fully see the impact, but heaven will.
So here’s my encouragement for the next seven days—and honestly, for all of 2026:
Each morning, pray: “God, as I go today, help me live like I’m on mission—right where You’ve placed me.”
Then walk through your day with open eyes and a willing heart.
You are still called. Not only when you’re sent far—but even when you stay faithful where you are.
Let’s trust God with the ordinary—and watch Him do the eternal.
Over the past year, the Lord has been leading me through a season of transition, healing, and renewed clarity. This post is a personal life update, a praise report from our recent mission in Coron, Palawan, and an invitation to join me in prayerfully journeying with me as I step into what God has prepared for 2026.
Life Update
The year 2025 has been a defining season for me. After many years of serving in various ministry contexts—discipleship, leadership development, prayer ministry, inner healing, and both local and international missions—the Lord gently invited me to step back, listen, and discern His next direction.
This season was not easy, but it was necessary. God used it to realign my heart, heal what needed healing, and reaffirm that His calling remains—even as the expression of that calling continues to grow beyond familiar structures and spaces. I am deeply grateful to those who stood with me in prayer, encouragement, and grace throughout this journey.
Praise Report: Medical Mission in Coron, Palawan
One of the greatest highlights of this year was the Medical Mission Trip in Coron, Palawan (December 14–18).
By God’s grace, and through the generosity and prayers of ministry partners, our team was able to serve underserved communities through medical outreach, children’s activities, community engagement, and Gospel-centered ministry. We witnessed joy, openness, and deep gratitude in places often overlooked—and were reminded that God is already at work long before we arrive.
This mission affirmed once again a simple but powerful truth: when the Church shows up with humility, love, and obedience, lives are touched in ways only God can orchestrate.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As I continue seeking the Lord—and waiting for future cross-cultural opportunities—I sense His leading to serve communities across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, with a focus on discipleship, outreach, and mission support.
This next season will require continued obedience, faith, and partnership. While I may not yet see the full picture, I am confident that the One who calls is faithful to lead and provide.
With humility, I would like to invite those who feel led to partner with me in prayer and support as I prepare for the ministry journey ahead in 2026.
Our current goal is to raise ₱100,000–₱150,000 to help cover ministry-related needs such as transportation, lodging, meals, and outreach resources over the coming months. Support may be given on a monthly, quarterly, or one-time basis, as the Lord leads.
I am reminded and encouraged by Philippians 1:5 (NIV):
“Because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”
More than financial support, your prayers, encouragement, and continued partnership mean so much to me.
Thank you for walking this journey with me. May we continue to share lives and see nations transformed for God’s glory.
In just a few days, it’ll officially be two months before 2025 ends — can you believe that? Time really flies.
There’s a quote I’ve always loved: “Not every problem in life means it’s bad.” Life is truly a beautiful journey — filled with lessons, hardships, heartaches, joys, and special moments that shape us into who we’re meant to become. Every season, whether good or painful, has a purpose.
Looking back at the past 30 years, I’ve gone through many experiences — some I’m not proud of, and honestly, if I had the chance to change them, maybe I would. But I’ve also realized that those same moments were orchestrated by God. They were never wasted. Through every failure, regret, and broken chapter, He was there — covering me with His wings and carrying me with His grace.
My life testimony is an ongoing story of God’s redemption. Since 2017, when I joined an inner healing ministry, I’ve experienced Jesus’ love in ways I never imagined. He met me in my darkest moments — moments when I even thought of ending my life. But God intervened. I am not a product of suicide — I am a product of grace.
I’ve also gone through seasons of being misunderstood and unseen, of searching for affirmation in all the wrong places. I thought healing would be instant after 21 weeks of inner healing sessions, but the truth is — healing is a lifelong process. Triggers still come. Painful memories resurface. Yet, one thing remains: the grace of the Lord Most High. He is the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End — the One who keeps me going even when I don’t fully understand.
Then came 2020 — the pandemic. I remember questioning God: “Why are You stopping me from going? Why can’t I pursue the calling You placed in my heart?” I had already submitted my desire to become a cross-cultural missionary to my church leaders in 2022, hoping to join the School of World Missions. But it didn’t happen. I faced rejection, confusion, and deep discouragement.
Even after joining a short-term mission trip in Thailand last November 2024, I still struggled. I felt left out, unseen, and unworthy — and that pain led me to step down from all ministry involvement. For almost a year now, I’ve been in a quiet, hidden season — away from the spotlight, away from ministry, and learning to rest and listen again.
I may not know how to reconcile everything yet, but I’ve chosen to forgive — even those who may not have seen my heart or understood my journey. I continue to pray for discernment for those in leadership and for the next generation of missionaries being trained today. Because truly, the urgency of the Great Commission remains — the world still needs Jesus.
Before this year ends, I want to take this moment to thank the people who stood by me — my accountability partners, my friends in the Journey Ministry, and those who never made me feel condemned, but instead reminded me of the love of Jesus.
Your simple “kamusta” means more than you know. It’s a reminder of what Proverbs 27 says — that as iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.
If you’re reading this today, I want you to know: You are not alone. Your story matters. And even when you don’t understand the season you’re in — grace is still carrying you through.
Let’s keep praying, sharing, and caring for one another. Hwaiting! 💚
Sometimes, people leave — not because we did something wrong, but because God is doing something right. It hurts, yes. It feels confusing. But maybe, just maybe, it’s not rejection… it’s redirection.
When God allows someone to walk out of your story, it isn’t always about loss. Often, it’s about protection, preparation, and positioning for what’s ahead. Here are a few ways to see His hand even in the letting go.
🌾 1. They Were Part of an Old Chapter
(Genesis 13 — Abraham & Lot) Abraham loved Lot, but they eventually had to part ways so God’s promise could unfold fully. Sometimes, God separates you from people not because of conflict, but because your callings are heading in different directions. When God says “let go,” it’s not rejection — it’s release.
🌤️ 2. Their Season Has Served Its Purpose
(Acts 15 — Paul & Barnabas) Not every ending is tragic. Some are transitions. When Paul and Barnabas went their separate ways, it wasn’t division — it was multiplication. God may close one partnership to open two paths that reach even farther. What looks like a goodbye might be heaven saying, “It’s time to grow.”
🛡️ 3. God’s Protecting You from What You Can’t See
(Judges 16 — Samson & Delilah) Sometimes, God steps in before something — or someone — hurts you deeper than you can handle. Samson’s downfall came from misplaced trust. So when God removes certain people from your life, don’t chase what He’s saving you from. Protection doesn’t always look like blessing… but it always is.
🌊 4. So You’ll Lean on Him More
(Judges 7 — Gideon’s 300) God reduced Gideon’s army to show that victory isn’t about numbers — it’s about dependence. Maybe you’re losing your support system because God wants you to find strength in Him, not in people. When everything feels smaller, it’s just His way of making His power look bigger.
🌸 5. You Can’t Step Into the New Holding Onto the Old
(Ruth 1 — Orpah & Ruth) Orpah went back, but Ruth moved forward — and that one decision changed everything. Some relationships are beautiful but temporary. They were meant to shape you, not stay with you. Don’t stay stuck replaying the past when God’s already preparing your next chapter.
💔 Walking Through the Loss
Let’s be honest — knowing it’s God’s will doesn’t make it less painful. But here’s how you can walk through it without losing peace:
Allow yourself to grieve. Healing begins when you stop pretending you’re fine.
Be raw with God. Tell Him the truth about how you feel — He’s not afraid of your honesty.
Don’t let bitterness take root. Forgiveness keeps your heart light enough to move forward.
Stay open. Every time God closes a door, He’s preparing a new connection that aligns with your purpose.
Keep trusting. God’s hands never subtract without a plan to multiply.
🌱 Final Encouragement
If God took something or someone away, it’s not the end of your story — it’s the start of a new one. You’ll look back one day and realize: every goodbye was making room for a greater hello.
So keep walking. Keep trusting. Keep your heart surrendered. Because when God redirects your path, it’s always toward something better. 🌤️
Hello, August. Halfway through Q3, and I can already feel the breeze of Christmas.🎄
2025 has been nothing short of a roller coaster, from rejection to healing, from forgiveness to forgetting, from taking risks to embracing the unknown.
At the beginning of the year:
I was rejected — in relationships, in promotions, in dreams I once held tightly.
I was triggered — but healing came, not overnight, but through surrender.
I chose to forgive — and in doing so, I also chose to release and move forward.
I took the leap — from the corporate world into freelancing, with trembling faith… but peace followed.
Through all of it, I was reminded of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, There is a time for everything under heaven.
This season has been both pruning and preparing me. Through the walks, gym sessions, rest days, coaching, and even in silent tears, the Lord was near.
And now, with just 4 months left in the year, I’m still believing: 💸 Financial breakthrough for me and my family 🌍 A nation to land on for missions 💼 A business for the future 💔 Full healing from past wounds 🙏 A life fully surrendered and aligned with His will
“May the Lord bless you and protect you. May He smile on you and be gracious to you. May He show you His favor and give you peace.” — Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT)
This is not just reflection — this is redirection. I’m still walking, still praying, still hoping. Let’s finish strong. 🌾🔥
From the Streets of Thailand to the Depths of My Heart
November 2024 was more than just another mission trip; it was a divine encounter. Walking through the streets of Thailand, meeting people from different cultures, and seeing God move in unexpected ways reminded me why I do what I do. It wasn’t just about sharing the Gospel—it was about letting God refine me. Each conversation, each moment of worship, and even the silent prayers I whispered into the Thai breeze became markers of His presence.
But what I didn’t expect was how much this journey would set the stage for something deeper—a season of stillness, of wrestling, and of learning to trust Him when nothing made sense.
A Season of Silence: When God Calls You to Be Still
Coming back from Thailand, I felt an unusual stirring. Normally, I would be planning the next step, rushing into the next mission, chasing the next opportunity. But this time, God asked me to pause. To be silent.
Silence is uncomfortable. It forces you to confront the questions you’ve buried and the desires you’ve been clinging to. For me, this season meant stepping back from the noise of expectations—mine and others’. It meant tending to family, ministry, and personal matters that needed my undivided attention. More than anything, it meant surrendering my plans to the One who sees the bigger picture.
I thought silence meant inactivity. But I learned that silence is a season of preparation. And in that quiet, God was moving.
The Transition: When Letting Go Is the Only Way Forward
This past season also led me to one of the hardest decisions—trusting God’s direction over my own desires. There were things I wanted—roles, opportunities, places I thought I was meant to be. I had mapped out my future, convinced that I knew exactly where I was supposed to go.
But God had a different plan.
I found myself at a crossroads where I had to let go—not because I was giving up, but because I was giving in to His will. The organization I am part of now wasn’t on my radar, but here I am—learning, growing, and realizing that when God reroutes you, it’s always for something greater than you imagined.
Faith isn’t just about believing in God’s promises; it’s about surrendering when the answer is different from what you expected.
Moving Forward: Trusting His Process, Embracing the Mission
If there’s anything I’ve learned through all of this, it’s this: God’s timing is never rushed, His silence is never empty, and His plans are never second-best.
Maybe you’re in a waiting season too. Maybe you’re wrestling with decisions, wondering why things aren’t going your way. I encourage you—trust the process. Don’t rush what God is preparing you for. Be still. Let Him lead.
Because when the time comes, He will open the doors that no one else can.
Until then, we keep creating, exploring, learning, and growing—anchored in faith and driven by His mission to transform lives.
Thailand’s rich history is a tapestry woven with the migrations of Thai people from southwestern China between the 6th and 11th centuries, intertwined with the rise and fall of Indianised kingdoms like the Mon, Khmer Empire, and Malay states. Among these were Thai states such as Ngoenyang, Sukhothai, Lan Na, and Ayutthaya, whose legacies continue to shape the nation’s cultural and spiritual fabric.
As a high school student, I dreamt of visiting Bangkok—not just to explore its vibrant culture but to uncover a personal connection. At the time, I wondered if my father, whom I had lost touch with, was still there, as it was the last place I knew he had been.
That longing stayed with me for years, evolving as I became active in church. During one service, a pastor encouraged us to pray for a nation—whether we were called to go, give, or simply intercede in prayer. Without hesitation, Thailand came to mind, and from that moment, I prayed for the day I could visit—not just as a traveler but as a bearer of hope and purpose.
Fast forward to today: after years of faithfully praying, God opened the door, and I found myself standing on Thai soil, not just in Bangkok but in the province of Khon Kaen.
The journey was no longer about personal discovery but about being sent on a mission.
Connecting with the students and introducing them to the local ground team was a deeply meaningful experience.
Watching them take their first steps toward a life filled with purpose and faith was a privilege.
The local church here, Every Nation Church Khon Kaen, has cultivated a community that gathers every Friday—a place they call their “extended family.” It’s a sanctuary where they can grow, belong, and be equipped for life.
Each conversation during this mission trip has been humbling and inspiring. Hearing the stories of the people here—stepping into their shoes, sharing encouragement, and sowing seeds of hope—has shown me the beauty of God’s work.
Witnessing the relief in their eyes as they felt seen, heard, and empowered to keep moving forward despite life’s challenges was a profound reminder of why we do what we do.
This trip has reaffirmed my belief in the power of prayer, community, and purpose.
Together, let us continue to pray for this young generation to remain deeply connected at Every Nation Church Khon Kaen.
May they grow to embody Life, Integrity, Faith, and Excellence, unlocking their God-given potential to transform not only their lives but also the lives of other students and even their families.
Thank you for being a part of this journey—whether through prayer, encouragement, or support. This mission was made possible because of you.
I know it was awkward to say those words or probably to start a conversation with a very long-time fiddly season.
Today, On exactly the same Day and Month on January 03, 2020, I wrote a letter and/or an invitation that I’m supposed to travel to Indonesia for a trip, and suddenly back in December 2019, I had the plan to visit somewhere in Davao, Mindanao but at 14:11 PST on December 15, 2019, the province of Davao del Sur on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines was struck by an earthquake measuring 6.8 Mw. (https://g.co/kgs/c2bHBW)
Unfortunately, all the plans and preparations are initially ruined and I eventually have to go back to where I used to work.
Back story, around January 2020, I tried to coordinate with a lot of organizations and I already sent them a letter of intent that I am going to partner with their organizations but no one replied at least one, and even those individuals who initially promised that they are going to partner with my trip.
This is not easy to go back and pretend that everything was okay back then and work again without your heart and focus on that specific field but I have to go on and believe that everything will be fine in His perfect timing.
I felt that I was a piece of crap because of failed interviews and receiving a lot of regretful emails from the previous letter of intent which I want to disappear without any hint of where I am but Thank goodness because I was able to redeem myself and I got a job and still exhausting which my heart and mind is calling me to the other side to continue my journey but eventually God was able to use people to encourage me and try to motivate me (which I don’t know who they are and where are they came from.)
And the Pandemic was still ongoing around January 2020, Taal Volcanic Eruption, and other calamities that were come up and eventually Lockdown started in March 2020. At this moment, I thought and felt that everything was a coincidence for some reason because I was not able to go to Davao last December 2019 and to Indonesia somewhere in January-February 2020.
I thought it was the end of my journey but this was a blessing in disguise because, after the 3 months (March-June 2020) lockdown, I was able to retain and back to work and to cut the long story, I was able to pursue my goal and become one of the support (Mentor/SME/Acting TL) on our Telco Account back in 2021 on the same company. I learned a lot of things from my two Team Lead back then (TL ko nung agent pa ko at yung TL ko nung naging support na ko) and I really appreciate her leadership and the way she motivates and gives me constructive criticism it was fair and helpful (somehow nakaka miss yung coaching namin).
Sidenotes: During the time that I’m being part of the support team, I tried to explore a few things, I entered into a streaming platform called “UPLive” and I earned a few but this was not new to me since I used to stream in “KUMU” during the Lockdown days.
Fast track, I filed a resignation last December 2021 because of health issues (paranoid ako baka kasi Covid sya), and comes 2022, I was not able to go back to work right away because I’m looking for a Work-At-Home / Work-From-Home setup since I am a bit worried and skeptical again because of these trial times that all can be a Covid suspect. So, I tried to give it a shot and applied to 3 companies between February to April 2022, and eventually, I was failed by the two companies. But I Thank God that I was able to go back to work in the BPO Industry last May 2022 but now in a Canadian-based account which is somehow kind of a “Green pasture” to me because of the great compensation and enticing opportunity that comes once you learn the process and everything. I tried to unlearn and learn new things in this company. I’m very much Thankful that God gives me a handful of individuals that helps me to grow and strive for excellence.
So, If ever you already here reading these words and you are still reading, Thank you for sticking around and I appreciate you even though I’m a bit boring writer or whatnot.
So, going back to my story, Pandemics hits a lot of things in this world. It might be Physical attacks, Emotional breakdowns, Financial crises, and/or Spiritual battles. These are a few examples that I experienced. I’m still in the process of healing yesterday’s wounds and I’m currently looking forward that God can be able to make miracles that others can see through it regardless of the circumstances we are facing right now.
I’m believing in faith that this year 2023 is a year of Miracles upon miracles and that God can do everything once you believe in Him. I know that my story was not an inspiration to some but to others that have the same experience. I hope and pray that my dream is that we are able to EXPLORE the world together, CREATE more memories, LEARN new things in many different ways, and GROW with Hope, Peace, and Love that transcends all understanding and will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus
Selamat Hari untuk semua Mitra Setia saya, (Good Day to all my Faithful Partners,)
Salam hangat dalam nama Yesus! Saya berdoa semoga semuanya baik-baik saja dengan Anda dan keluarga Anda. (Warm Greetings in Jesus name! I pray that all is well with you and your family.) I’m also very thankful for what God is doing over my career, family and personal walk with Him. I’m in awe of God’s goodness and faithfulness in our lives. I have seen His hands move in different ways we didn’t expect or imagine. Truly God is awesome that He used me to extend His love to other people for them to feel the they are God’s sons and daughters. After series of Local Exposure Trip in Phnom Pehn, Cambodia last October 2017 and in Yangon, Myanmar last May 2018 which both are predominantly Buddhist nation and after that, I got a Local Exposure Trip in Pasil, Kalinga, Philippines last September 2019. And right now, Abba is already calling to me in a long-term mission to the Least Reached People in Indonesia where Abba called me to this nation. For this Local Exposure Trip I will be raising an initial 3-month budget of $1,500 as I enter to that country. This will cover my visa fee, airfare, field research materials, meals, local transportation and accommodation expenses or by giving of PHP 10,000, PHP 5,000, PHP 3,000 or PHP 1,000 in a one-time gift, Monthly, Quarterly or Annually for this Local Exposure Trip?
In line with this, we are giving you the opportunity to prayerfully consider being my ministry partner by contributing towards the completion of the said amount for the cause of unreached people of IND. We pray that, in your generosity, our Maker will touch you to see the significance of this cause and make you a channel of His blessing towards the fulfillment of the Great Commission.
We appreciate your support as I blesses the IND ARB Moslem. Surely the Abba of the harvest whose heart beats for the Least Reached People in Indonesia will remember your labor of love. Thank you and God bless you indeed for your generosity. Reach the unreached, Vincent Angello Ayo Cueto
The capital was moved to Vientiane in 1560 during the reign of King Setthathirath, who erected the That Luang Stupa, a venerated religious shrine which is a well known symbol of the Laos nation. The warring Burmese occupied the capital for seven years from 1575, reflecting their dominance over Southeast Asia at that time. In 1591 the two Laotian kingdoms in Luang Prabang and Vieng Chan were reunited under King Nokeo Koumane.
A French colony until the 1953, the power struggle which ensued between royalists and the communist group Pathet Lao also saw the country caught up in the Vietnam War. Communist forces overthrew the monarchy in 1975, heralding years of isolation.
After the fall of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, Laos began opening up to the world. But despite economic reforms, the country remains poor and heavily dependent on foreign aid.
Most Laotians live in rural areas, with around 80% working in agriculture mostly growing rice. The state has made no secret of its huge hydropower ambitions and its desire to become the “battery” of Southeast Asia.
The government anticipates that by 2025 hydropower will become the country’s biggest source of revenue. But neighbours Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia have raised concerns about the environmental impact of its dam building projects along the Mekong River
TIMELINE
1893 – Laos becomes a French protectorate until 1945, when it is briefly occupied by the Japanese towards the end of World War II.
Image copyrightGETTY IMAGESImage captionNorth Vietnamese troops and their South Vietnamese opponents fought on Laotian territory as the conflict spilled over in the 1960s
1946 – French rule over Laos is resumed.
1950 – Laos is granted semi-autonomy as an associated state within the French Union.
1954 – Laos gains full independence as a constitutional monarchy. Civil war breaks out between royalists and the communist group, the Pathet Lao.
1960s – Laos subject to extensive aerial bombardment by the United States in an attempt to destroy North Vietnamese sanctuaries and to rupture the supply lines known as the Ho Chi Minh trail. It’s estimated that more bombs were dropped on Laos than were used during the whole of World War II.
1973 – Vientiane ceasefire agreement divides Laos between the communists and the royalists.
Communist take-over
1975 – The Pathet Lao – renamed the Lao People’s Front – seizes power. King Savang Vatthana abdicates – he is later arrested and dies in captivity. The Lao People’s Democratic Republic is proclaimed, with the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP) the only legal political party. Kaysone Phomvihane becomes prime minister. “Socialist transformation” of the economy is launched.
1979 – Food shortages and the flight of hundreds of thousands of refugees to Thailand leads the government to modify its approach. Some private enterprise within agriculture is permitted.
1986 – Encouraged by the Gorbachev reforms in the Soviet Union, Laos introduces market-oriented reforms.
1989 – First elections held since 1975. All candidates have to be approved by the LPRP. Communists retain power.
1991 – Security and cooperation pact signed with Thailand. A new constitution is endorsed. Kaysone Phomvihane becomes president, Khamtay Siphandon becomes prime minister.
1992 – President Phomvihane dies. Siphandon becomes head of the LPRP.
1994 – “Friendship bridge” over the Mekong linking Laos and Thailand is opened.
1995 – US lifts its 20-year aid embargo.
1997 – Laos becomes a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean). The Asian financial crisis decimates the value of the Lao currency, the kip.
1998 – Khamtay Siphandon becomes president.
Bomb blasts
2000 – A series of bomb blasts hits the capital – the authorities blame anti-government groups based abroad. Celebrations of 25 years of communist rule take place in Vientiane in December.
2000 – Government embarks on decentralization process, granting more autonomy and budgetary responsibilities to provinces.
2001 March – Khamtay Siphandon re-elected president.
2001 April – International Monetary Fund approves a new three-year loan for Laos worth $40 million. IMF officials expect the loan to help strengthen macroeconomic stability and reduce poverty “through growth with equity”.
2001 April – Parliament introduces death sentence for possession of more than 500g of heroin.
2001 December – UN World Food Programme (WFP) launches three-year initative to feed 70,000 malnourished children in Laos.
2002 February – Parliamentary elections. All but one of the 166 candidates are from the governing Lao People’s Revolutionary Party.
2003 June – Two European journalists and their American translator arrested after making contact with Hmong ethnic group. Pair found guilty of obstructing security forces and briefly jailed.
US-based Lao exile group, the Fact Finding Commission, says the Lao Citizens Movement for Democracy (LCMD) has started a revolution in 11 provinces. The government dismisses the claim.
The LCMD says it has killed three soldiers in clashes. The government denies the claim.
2004 November – As chair of the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean), Laos hosts the organisation’s summit.
2005 February – US establishes Normal Trade Relations, ending protracted period of punitive import taxes.
2005 April – World Bank approves loans for Nam Theun Two hydroelectric dam project. Dam is expected to produce electricity for export; critics are concerned about its environmental, social impact.
Image copyrightAFPImage captionThe ruling Lao People’s Revolutionary Party has conducted cautious economic reform, but maintains a tight grip on politics
2005 November – Foundation stone of Nam Theun Two hydroelectric dam is laid.
2006 June – Choummaly Sayasone succeeds Khamtay Siphandone as president. The former vice president became leader of the ruling communists in March.
2006 December – More than 400 members of the Hmong ethnic group surrender to the authorities. They are among several groups of Hmong who have been living in the jungle as fugitives since 1975, when the pro-US government they supported was defeated by the communists.
2007 June – US prosecutors charge nine people with plotting a coup in Laos, including former general Vang Pao, a prominent member of the ethnic Hmong group who emigrated to the US in the 1970s.
2007 July – California court order the release on bail of former general Vang Pao, accused of plotting the overthrow of Laos’ communist government.
WTO membership
2008 January – Laos takes steps to become full member of the World Trade Organization.
2008 May – Some 69% of children in Laos lack basic health care, Save the Children charity reports.
2009 March – Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn opens a rail connection over the Mekong river, linking Thailand and Laos.
2009 December – Thailand forcibly repatriates more than 4,000 ethnic Hmong asylum seekers back to Laos.
2010 December – PM Bouasone Bouphavanh resigns, citing “family problems”, and is replaced by National Assembly president Thongsing Thammavong. Analysts say factional disputes within the ruling party are the likely reason.
2011 January – New stock market opens in Vientiane as part of tentative experiment with capitalism.
Former Laos royal general and leader of Hmong ethnic group Vang Pao dies in exile in US, aged 81.
2011 June – President Choummaly is given a further five-year term by parliament.
2012 July – Hillary Clinton becomes the first US secretary of state to visit Laos for 57 years. The legacy of the Vietnam War and a controversial dam project are on her agenda.
2012 November – Laos approves plans to build a massive dam at Xayaburi, on the lower Mekong river, despite opposition from environmentalists and neighbours Cambodia and Vietnam.
2013 August – European parliamentarians draw attention to the disappearance of activist Sombath Somphone, last seen at a police checkpoint.
2014 May – Several senior officials are killed in a plane crash in northern Laos, including Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Douangchay Phichit, Security Minister Thongbanh Sengaphone and Vientiane Mayor Soukanh Mahalath.
2016 April – National Assembly at its five-year congress appoints Bounnhang Vorachit as president and leader of the ruling Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP), succeeding Choummaly Sayasone.
2016 September – President Barack Obama becomes the first sitting US president to visit Laos.
US commits 90 million US dollars over three years to help clear unexploded bombs the US dropped on Laos during the Vietnam War.
VincExperience 