In a momentous decision, participants at the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM) Constituency Meeting, held on December 4 and 5 at the Adams Seventh-day Adventist Church in Davao City, resoundingly embraced the historic bifurcation of two missions in Mindanao.
The focal point of the meeting was the Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NEMM), which received the green light from the SPUC Executive Committee on November 29, 2021. This pivotal decision has led to the creation of two new entities: the Northeastern Mindanao Mission and the Southeastern Caraga Mission (SCM).
Following the mandate, the former mission is set to merge with the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference, while the latter will become an integral part of the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission.
The momentum continued into the second phase, as the committee officially approved the establishment of the Southern Mindanao Mission on March 28, 2022. This critical endorsement solidifies the creation of two additional entities: the Southern Mindanao Mission and the South Central Mindanao Mission.
The Southeastern Philippine Union Mission, recognizing the dynamic growth and organizational needs, embarked on this strategic mission bifurcation, aiming to enhance mission efficiency and better serve the diverse communities in Mindanao. The decision to bifurcate reflects the delegates’ thoughtful and deliberate approach to adapting to the region’s evolving landscape of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
This historic event marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Adventist missions in Mindanao, signaling a new era for the church's outreach and impact in the region. The Southeastern Philippine Union Mission looks forward to the collaborative efforts of the newly formed missions, working collectively towards their respective goals and contributing to the broader mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Quin Salarda, SPUC Communication Department