Milestone Decision: SPUC Splits for Growth

Church Leaders Make Historic Decision to Restructure South Philippines Union

In a monumental move during the annual council of the General Conference in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA, on October 10, 2023, significant changes were set in motion for the South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC). The council voted to split the organization, marking a major shift in its structure. This landmark decision, effective December 31, 2023, promises a transformative transition aimed at unlocking growth opportunities, fostering collaboration, and enhancing the union’s mission effectiveness.

Mindanao, the Philippines’ second-largest island, often dubbed the “Land of Promise,” boasts abundant natural resources like the famous durian and mangosteen fruits. Beyond its natural beauty, Mindanao’s unique culture and tourism appeal have long been recognized. Yet, beneath its surface lies a spiritual promise that has been steadily growing.

Established in 1964, the South Philippine Union Conference (SPUC) has been a significant presence in the region for over six decades. With around 850,000 members in a population of 26.7 million, SPUC stands as the largest union within the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD). This remarkable growth includes over 50,000 new members in the last five years, resulting in a member-to-population ratio of 1:39.

Three key factors necessitate territorial realignment: spiritual growth, leadership development, and increased outreach within Mindanao. With eight conferences and seven institutions currently under SPUC’s umbrella, splitting the union into two independent entities, the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC) and the Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM), is recommended to facilitate a more focused approach to growth and service.

Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SWPUC): Covering three healthcare facilities and two educational institutions, SWPUC will oversee two conferences and two missions, extending its reach to the 13.3 million people of West Mindanao.

Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SEPUM): Comprising four missions and two institutions, SEPUM will focus on providing spiritual support and services to the remaining half of Mindanao’s population.

Success in this strategic realignment hinges not only on numbers but also on the competence and dedication of church leaders. The significant growth in membership from 2017 to 2021, with a 43.99% increase, underscores the church’s commitment to Mindanao’s spiritual and community development.

During the meeting, SSD president Roger Caderma, Pastor Danielo Palomares, SPUC President, along with Pastor Edwin Magdadaro, SPUC Executive Secretary, and Mr. Chemuel Almocera, SPUC Treasurer, expressed gratitude, recognizing God’s guidance in this journey.

Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, hailed the realignment as a divine step forward, ensuring spiritual growth and service reach every corner of Mindanao. Pastor Palomares emphasized the commitment to mission prosperity and the people of Mindanao.

The Seventh-day Adventist Church in the South Philippines aims to reach its full potential through this restructuring. With a focus on spiritual growth, effective leadership, community engagement, and education, the church endeavors to extend its mission in Mindanao, touching more lives and making a lasting impact.

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Southeastern Philippine Union Misson

Head office of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Southwestern part of Mindanao.

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