New Training Center in Lake Sebu Expected to Empower and Advance Missions in Local Communities

The Adventist Church in the Southern Asia-Pacific region (SSD) recently celebrated the dedication of the Adventist Training Center in Brgy. Seloton, Lake Sebu, South Cotabato, Philippines. This milestone marks the culmination of years of planning, prayer, and community collaboration, resulting in a facility designed to equip and empower people for mission while addressing the needs of the local community.

The vision for the center began in 2018 when the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) was selected as a recipient of the 13th Sabbath Offering. The funds were allocated to support several mission projects, including the dream of establishing a training center in Lake Sebu. Elder Roger Caderma, then president of the South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC), encouraged the Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) to submit a proposal, which was approved, securing Php 20 million in funding.

The land acquisition process, a key phase of the project, was not without challenges. After an extensive search, the church purchased a 3.4-hectare property in Lam-alo, overlooking Lake Sebu. The property, initially forested and occupied by a few residents, was carefully cleared and prepared for development. The Church ensured an amicable resolution with residents by granting them ownership of the portions they occupied, reflecting its commitment to building relationships while advancing its mission.

The dedication ceremony highlighted the center’s purpose: to provide training and resources for mission work and to serve the local community. The facility features a function hall, main building, guest accommodations, and a dormitory for non-formal education in partnership with TESDA. It also includes agro-tourism initiatives in collaboration with the local government, promoting sustainable development in the region.

Local leaders expressed their gratitude for the church’s contributions. Barangay Captain Cornelio Ulaw noted, “This training center has provided our community with income opportunities and a place for growth and development. We are deeply grateful to the Adventist Church for this initiative.” Hon. Remie Mann Unggol, Mayor of Lake Sebu, added, “The Adventists have been strong partners in molding our youth and inspiring our community to dream and achieve more.”

Pastor Roger Caderma, now SSD president, emphasized the church’s commitment to holistic ministry. “This center is more than a building; it’s a hub for hope and healing. It represents our dedication to sharing God’s love not just in words but through action and service.”

Adjacent to the training center, a PHP 12 million megachurch project is under construction. This center of influence will cater to the spiritual needs of the area’s tribal minority population, providing a space for worship, fellowship, and growth in faith.

As part of the celebration, the Adventist World Radio station, strategically situated within the training center, was also dedicated. This station is poised to serve as a powerful platform for sharing God’s message of hope, broadcasting programs that will reach remote areas and underserved communities. The AWR station underscores the church’s commitment to harnessing technology for mission and expanding its reach across the region.

The dedication also highlighted the generous contributions of local members. A three-room guest house, donated by a dedicated church member in the region, was unveiled during the event. This donation reflects the spirit of giving and community partnership that has fueled the center’s development. The guest house will provide accommodations for missionaries, trainers, and visitors, further enhancing the center’s capacity to serve.

The dedication of the Adventist Training Center reflects the Church’s mission to empower individuals and communities, combining spiritual ministry with practical service. For millennials and mission-driven individuals, it serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, collaboration, and a shared vision to bring hope to the world.

This center is more than a facility—it is a testament to God’s providence and a call to every believer to rise to the challenge of making a difference, one community at a time.