It was a long time ago, rather long to be history but still fresh for everyone to remember vividly in his or her mind, a group of people in Europe, instead of possibly bloody fights, chose another form of struggle to preserve their customs of living, worship and social relations; because of religious persecution, they chose to flee away from their land that generations and generations before them and themselves cherished.  Their aim was to rebuild their lives and the lives of their offspring in freedom.  At first, their decision was based solely on feelings and simple concepts of freedom, and on complete and total freedom for their beliefs and religion.

Phu Khanh is a hamlet located at Nha Trang City, Vietnam. On May 12, 1981, 2 motorized light fishing boats with 34 men, 20 women and 11 children, set off from this village and headed for the open seas.

For almost a week, these boats held their own against waves more powerful than those they built to withstand.  Finally, on December 16, 1981, they reached the shore of Maybayo Beach, Morong, Bataan.  Just before an approaching typhoon raised the seas in a fury.

Ashore, the Philippines Constabulary integrated National Police as well as officials and citizens of Mabayo attended to the refugees.  After a brief stay at the Mabayo Elementary School, they were transferred to the Fabella Center in Manila.  Words engraved on a metal in front of the 2 boats displayed at the Freedom Plaza, Morong, Bataan, Philippines.