On November 19, 2024, delegates of the Adventist Church in the North Philippines (NPUC) voted to dissolve the organization, opening the way for the creation of two new ecclesiastical entities: the Northern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM) and the Southern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (SLPUM). This restructuring follows the General Conference Annual Council’s approval of the bifurcation, designed to meet the growing needs and the mission of the Adventist Church in the North Philippines.
The session began with an inspiring devotional message from Pastor Roger O. Caderma, president of the Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region, who emphasized the importance of unity amidst organizational changes. Drawing from the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s global strategic plan, I Will Go, Caderma reminded the delegates of their shared mission.
“Unity is not defined by our organizational structure but by our shared purpose in Christ,” Caderma stated. “As we move forward, let us remain united in our commitment to proclaim the gospel. The I Will Go initiative challenges us to embrace new opportunities for growth and impact, and this reorganization reflects that call,” he added.
The decision to dissolve NPUC is ecclesiastical in nature and reflects the church’s intent to adapt to the needs of its growing membership and mission. By creating two new unions, the church aims to enhance administrative efficiency and deepen its impact on local and regional evangelistic efforts.
The new unions—Northern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (NLPUM) and Southern Luzon Philippine Union Mission (SLPUM)—will serve distinct regions, with NLPUM focusing on the northern provinces of Luzon, including Metro Manila, and SLPUM overseeing the southern provinces. This realignment aims to enhance administrative efficiency and provide localized support for mission work and member services.
Following the approval of the dissolution, each new organization will hold a special constituency meeting to elect department directors and executive committee members. These meetings are essential to ensuring the smooth operation of the unions and to appointing leaders who will spearhead their respective missions.
Delegates expressed both gratitude for the legacy of NPUC and excitement for the future of the new unions. “This decision is a leap of faith,” shared Pastor Daniel Malabad, the first president for NLPUM. “It’s about positioning ourselves to better meet the needs of our members and communities while staying true to our mission.”
The vote passed with overwhelming support, reflecting the delegates’ commitment to growth and adaptation. Plans are now underway to formalize the transition, with leaders urging members to remain prayerful and united during this critical period.
“This is a moment of transformation,” remarked Pastor Gerardo Cajobe, NPUC’s last president and first president of SLPUM. “As we move forward, let us remain focused on our shared mission of spreading the gospel to every corner of Luzon.”
As both union organizations prepare to take on their new roles, the church remains deeply committed to the I Will Go strategy, embracing the vision of bringing hope and salvation to every community within their territories.
Heshbon Buscato
Email: hbuscato@ssd.org
