In a significant development for the Adventist community in the South Philippines, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division Year-End Meeting recently held elections for three key leadership positions. The newly elected officers are set to take the reins of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission, overseeing the newly organized union comprising the Davao Mission (DM), Northern Davao Mission (NDM), Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM), and Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM). With a region that is culturally diverse and spiritually rich, the appointment of these leaders promises exciting new chapters for Adventist missions in Southeastern Mindanao.
A Historical Context
The Adventist community in the Southeastern Philippines has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. As the region evolved, the decision to form a new union was seen as a strategic move to better serve the growing membership and fulfill the church's mission. With the creation of this union, the need for visionary and dedicated leadership became paramount.
The Southeastern Philippine Union Mission will consist of four missions and two institutions (Adventist Hospital - Davao and South Philippine Adventist College) dedicated to providing services and spiritual assistance to Mindanao's 13.3 million population. The new organization is intended to give each territory priority attention and resources.
The Elections
The Nominating Committee consists of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) Officers and Associate Officers (9), Union Presidents (8), GC Representatives (2), Union Mission representative, and a Lay Member. The meeting was held at the Life Hope Impact Center around 7 in the evening.
The recent elections brought forward three accomplished individuals who will shape the future of Adventist missions in the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission. These newly elected officers have a deep commitment to the Adventist faith and a wealth of experience that has prepared them to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities within the region.
President: Pastor Danielo Palomares
Pastor Danielo Palomares, originally from Davao Oriental, began his Christian education at Davao Oriental Academy for elementary school and later attended Southern Mindanao Academy for high school. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Theology from Mountain View College and a Master's in Ministry from the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies. His service in the Seventh-day Adventist church began in the Davao Mission, where he held various roles for 18 years. In 2008, he transitioned to the South Philippine Union Conference, where he served in diverse capacities, including Director of Stewardship Ministries, Planned Giving and Trust Services, Union Evangelist, Human Resource Director, Associate Executive Secretary, Ministerial Secretary, and Executive Secretary. Currently, he serves as the union president. Pastor Palomares is happily married to Jill Alfaro, and their marriage has been blessed with two sons, Jandphil and Jandy, as well as twin daughters, Jandmia and Zweit Geschenk.
Executive Secretary: Pastor Edwin Magdadaro
Pastor Edwin Magdadaro has assumed the role of Executive Secretary at the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission, marking the continuation of his impressive journey of service within the church community. With a remarkable 33 years of dedicated service, he brings a wealth of knowledge in organizational management and a deep commitment to the church. His extensive experience includes serving as the Davao Mission's president for five years, youth director for nine years, executive secretary for 10 years, and president for five years. In addition, he contributed his leadership talents for a year as the SPUC executive secretary. Pastor Magdadaro's commitment to his faith is echoed in his loving family. He is happily married to Lindy Lou Siban-Magdadaro, and together, they have been blessed with two children, Louwayne Van and Kirk Louwaye. The presence of their cherished grandchild, Luca, has further increased their joy. Pastor Magdadaro's impressive journey and unwavering dedication continue to inspire and uplift the church community he serves.
Treasurer: Mr. Laurence Lamera
Laurence de Asis Lamera, the eldest of four siblings, hails from General Santos City and is a proud alumnus of Southern Mindanao Academy. He pursued higher education at Mountain View College, graduating in 1988 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, specializing in accounting. Additionally, he holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. Mr. Lamera's denominational journey began in 1993 when he took on the role of church auditor for Davao Mission, subsequently serving as accountant, cashier, and assistant treasurer in 2004. In 2008, he was elected Treasurer of the Davao Mission of Seventh-day Adventists, a position he continues to hold. His notable contributions include the establishment of MissionFoods, a Center of Influence in Davao City. Laurence is happily married to Ms. Aida Daugdaug-Lamera, who serves as the Associate Director of Nursing Services at Adventist Hospital Davao. They are blessed with three children: Veene Kristine, a nurse in the UK; Brent Lester, a business office worker at Adventist Hospital Davao; and Aljanna Laura, a third-year medical student at West Visayas State University.
Challenges and Opportunities
The newly elected leaders face a diverse and challenging set of tasks in the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission. The region encompasses a wide range of cultures, languages, and geographical terrain, making effective communication and ministry coordination vital. In addition to these challenges, the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission also has the opportunity to further strengthen the faith, education, and healthcare programs within its territory.
Outreach and growth are central to the Adventist mission, and the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission is no exception. The new leadership will need to foster unity, nurture spiritual growth, and empower the local Adventist community to reach out to their neighbors with the message of hope, health, and wholeness.
The election of the three new officers for the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission marks an exciting chapter in the history of Adventist missions in the South Philippines. The diversity and potential of the region make it a vibrant setting for Adventist work, and the new leadership is well-prepared to embrace the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead. The Adventist community eagerly anticipates the positive impact that these dedicated leaders will bring to the southeastern Philippines.
Edward Rodriguez, SSD Communication Department