On November 8, 2017, Elder Ted N.C. Wilson, Adventist world church president, recognized the work of Congressman Abayon and the rest of the Aangat Tayo Partylist representatives for their advocacy of protecting religious rights. As a sign of appreciation, Wilson handed out a framed digitally printed copy of “The Blessed Hope” during the Southern Asia-Pacific Division year-end meetings.
“The Blessed Hope” painting is an original masterpiece of Adventist artist Nathan Greene which portrays the idea of Christ’s soon return. In the painting, individuals from different races, cultures, and backgrounds savor that moment when they see their Savior in the clouds of heaven coming down to redeem everyone who trusts in Him. The people who are waiting for Jesus in this masterpiece are painted with Asian, Caucasian, African, American, Indian, and Filipino features.
In their social media party list page, Abayon expressed his sincere appreciation for this opportunity to be an ambassador of Christ in the field of policymaking. “Thank you very much to my General Conference, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, North Philippine Union Conference, Central Philippine Union Conference and South Philippine Union Conference family led by GC President, Elder Ted Wilson for the acknowledgement of our family's work in government service. It is our honor to be able to serve our fellow man. For God and country,” posted Abayon.
Abayon has authored a total of 123 house measures since he started his legislative assignment. Among the House measures are the renewal of franchise for 25 years to be granted to Gateway Television Broadcasting Inc. (Hope Channel Philippines) under Republic Act No. 7223 and the resolution commending the Adventist University of the Philippines for their centennial celebration and their continuous effort to train students for service and prepare for eternity.
In a recent case on religious freedom, Aangat Tayo won Supreme Court’s favor for petitioner Mr. Denmark Valmores’ to freely practice his religious rights and not be penalized for not attending classes on Saturday, his day of worship, after being deprived by the Mindanao State University – College of Medicine.
Currently, Abayon is speaking at churches throughout / conducting presentation in / traveling throughout the islands of the Philippines to enlighten the church members on their religious freedom.