Click here to sponsor a child like Bryan! All About Bryan... Bryan is 9 years old. He was born on July 14th, 1997 in the Philippines. He and his siblings, Airish Kate and John Jairus, live with relatives since their mother passed away. They live together in a small house with concrete floors and a kerosine stove. Everyone sleeps on the floor with a roll-up matt. Bryan's favorite subject in school is Art. After school, he enjoys playing with toys and cars, and dancing. At home, he is responsible for some cleaning and running errands for his relatives. Bryan's father is unemployed but Bryan's relatives help support everyone on their $30 montly income. Read our letters from Bryan... Capital: Manila Population: 74.4 million Language: Pilipino, English & 87 dialects Access to Clean Water: Urban - 92% Rural-80% Access to Adequate Sanitation: Urban- 92% Rural -71% Under 5 mortality rate: 4.2% GNP per capita: $1,020 There are more than 80 languages and dialects spoken in the Philippines and it is considered highly rude to speak to a Filipino in the wrong language. Still, Pilipino and English are the official languages of the country and English is commonly used in business, government and higher education. More than 80% of Filipinos are Catholic. Christmas is widely observed throughout the country and residents begin decorating in September. The festivities continue until All Saint's Day on January 6th. During this time, children frequently go caroling and are given money and treats. Filipinos value family above independence and harmony over conflict. Filipinos are considered sensitive, relaxed people who avoid giving bad news. Typically, several generations of a family live together under the same roof. Many children are unable to attend schools because their families cannot afford the required supplies, uniforms, and tuition. Depending on the location, many homes have dirt floors, no plumbing and no electricity.