The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Philippines is mourning the tragic loss of life following a multi-vehicle accident that occurred around noon on Thursday, May 1, 2025, along the Subic–Clark–Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX). The accident claimed ten lives and left at least thirty others injured.
Among the fatalities were eight Adventist individuals who were traveling to attend the Children’s Convention at North Luzon Adventist College in Pangasinan. According to reports, the incident occurred when a passenger bus rear-ended the Nissan Urvan carrying the Adventist delegates. The impact caused the van to crash into the vehicle in front, triggering a chain reaction that involved at least three more vehicles.
The lone survivor among the Adventist group was the driver of the Nissan Urvan, who is currently receiving medical attention. His survival amidst the loss of his seven companions has deeply moved the Adventist community and heightened the call for prayer and support.
This heartbreaking tragedy has brought immense sorrow to the Adventist Church in the Philippines and across the Southern Asia-Pacific region. What was meant to be a spiritual event filled with joy and hope has now turned into a time of grief, reflection, and solidarity.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives,” said Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. “We grieve with you. We are praying for you. And we are asking our global Adventist family to join us in lifting up every family impacted by this devastating accident.”
The Church is making a heartfelt appeal to its members and all people of goodwill around the world to offer prayers and emotional support for those mourning the loss of loved ones, for the injured who are still undergoing treatment, and for the families and communities affected by this tragedy.
“This is a time when we must come together in prayer,” added Pastor Wendell Mandolang, Executive Secretary of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division. “Let us remember the words of Psalm 34:18—‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.’ We are praying for healing, peace, and strength not only for the victims but also for their loved ones, whose lives have been changed forever.”
In the face of this tragedy, the Adventist Church continues to trust in God’s promises and remains committed to supporting the affected families with compassion and care. Church leaders are coordinating efforts to provide assistance and comfort to the victims’ families.
Let us unite in prayer, trust in God’s comforting presence, and uphold one another in this time of profound sorrow.
Erratum (Updated May 3, 2025): An earlier version of this article stated that seven Adventist individuals passed away in the accident. The correct number is eight. We apologize for the error and have updated the article to reflect this correction.