During the annual council of the General Conference held at Silver Spring, Maryland, USA, on October 10, 2023, a momentous decision was made that will reshape the South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC). The council voted to approve the bifurcation of the organization, signifying a significant change within its structure. This historic decision, which will come into effect on December 31, 2023, paves the way for a transformative transition that will unlock new growth opportunities, foster enhanced collaboration, and amplify the organization's effectiveness in fulfilling its mission.
Mindanao, the Philippines' second-largest island, has long been known as the "Land of Promise." Mindanao is known for its plentiful natural resources, such as the famed durian and mangosteen fruits, but it also has a unique culture that makes it a tourism haven. However, underlying its natural beauty lies a spiritual promise that has grown gradually over time.
The South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC), a prominent influence in the region for the Seventh-day Adventist Church, was founded in 1964, over six decades ago. With approximately 850,000 members in a population of 26.7 million, SPUC is now the largest union within the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD). This remarkable expansion includes more than 50,000 new members in the last five years, for a member-to-population ratio of 1:39.
Three main aspects contribute to the need for territorial realignment: spiritual growth, leadership development, and increasing outreach within Mindanao. Within the South Philippine Union Conference, there are now eight conferences and seven institutions. SPUC recommends splitting the union into two independent organizations to encourage a more balanced and focused approach to spiritual growth and community service: the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC) and the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM).
Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC)
The SWPUC will cover three healthcare establishments (Gingoog Sanitarium and Hospital, Adventist Medical Center - Valencia, and Adventist Medical Center - Iligan) and two educational facilities (Mountain View College and Adventist Medical Center College) in addition its two conferences (North Central Mindanao Conference and Western Mindanao Conference) and two missions (Central Mindanao Mission and Zamboanga Peninsula Mission). This restructuring will strengthen church and community support in the region, reaching out to West Mindanao's 13.3 million people.
Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM)
SEPUM will consist of four missions (Davao Mission, Northern Davao Mission, Northeastern Mindanao Mission, and Southern Mindanao Mission) and two institutions (Adventist Hospital - Davao and South Philippine Adventist College) dedicated to providing services and spiritual assistance to the remaining half of Mindanao's 13.3 million population. The new organization is intended to give each territory priority attention and resources.
This strategic realignment's success is dependent not just on numbers, but also on the capacity and credentials of the church's leaders. A large number of ministers and professionals imply a richness of information and expertise that can be used for community service and spiritual growth.
Looking at the growth data from 2017 to 2021, it's evident that the church has had a spectacular gain in membership, with a 43.99% growth rate. While the percentage rise was significantly smaller in 2021, the church remains devoted to Mindanao's spiritual and community development.
Furthermore, in the meeting, SSD president Roger Caderma, Pastor Danielo Palomares, who leads the entire SPUC family, along with notable figures like Pastor Edwin Magdadaro, the SPUC Executive Secretary, and Mr. Chemuel Almocera, the SPUC Treasurer, conveyed their sincere appreciation. They acknowledged God's guidance as a pivotal factor in this journey.
Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division expressed his appreciation in this historical movement signifying the continuous growth of the church in South Philippines. "We believe that this approved realignment is a divine step forward in our mission. It allows us to dedicate focused efforts to each part of Mindanao, ensuring spiritual growth and service reach every corner."
Pastor Palomares, president of the current South Philippine Union Conference added, "We are humbled by the overwhelming support and the realization that God's hand is guiding our path. This reorganization signifies a commitment to our mission's prosperity and the people of Mindanao."
The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Philippines is dedicated to reaching its full potential through realigning its territories. This audacious decision not only emphasizes the promise of spiritual growth, but also the importance of good leadership, community participation, and education in this varied and dynamic region. The church hopes to reach out further, touch more lives, and continue its mission in Mindanao through this new structure.
Pastor Roxie Pido and Edward Rodriguez