SMM turns over 7 AWR-affiliated Stations to SCMM
General Santos City (SMM) – It was an emotional but meaningful Sabbath experience for the AWR Southern Mindanao, which turned over 7 of the 11 stations to the South Central Mindanao Mission (SCMM).
Managers and program hosts of the twelve AWR-affiliate stations around the Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) territory crowded the Wong Auditorium at the Adventist Church headquarters in Southern Mindanao on January 19-21 to witness this rite in a very humbling and touching ceremony.
The leadership change of these radio stations was a ripple effect of the bifurcation of SMM and SCMM as new management stepped in to continue the legacy of spreading the message of God’s love through the airwaves.
Pr. Elmer J Romano, SMM Communication director, confesses, “I am very emotional about holding this event. It’s hard for me, and many of us, to see you leave SMM. On second thought, we are glad to know where you are going. You will be in good hands with SCMM and with God!”
The turnover ceremony symbolized the preservation of the ministry’s Mission and commitment. The leaders expressed gratitude and shared enthusiasm for the opportunity to contribute to the community’s spiritual growth.
Meanwhile, Mr. Nilo Cabatingan, the SCMM Treasurer and Communication director, accepted the AWR-affiliated stations and assured the SMM leadership that they would take great care of them, continuing to fulfill the great commission.
Mr. Rhoen Catolico, the Communication leader of the Adventist Church in the Southeastern Philippines (SePUM), presented series of lectures from Sabbath School to the afternoon’s program and delivered his Divine Worship message, envisioning collaborative efforts to position the church for better reach in the community.
In his message, Catolico emphasized that “This is not the time to just sit and watch! This is not the time to criticize the church why AWR broadcast can’t be heard in my home! In my car! At work! Miracles can happen if we do our share and do something about it!”
With the theme: “Embracing Media Ethics on Voice and Accountability,” the event recognized the sponsors, managers, and program hosts who dedicated their time and effort to help the broadcast ministry in this part of the region.
The participating stations and studios from Arakan, Bagumbayan, Banisilan, GenSan, Isulan, Kidapawan, Lake Sebu, Maguindanao, MAVIA, Tampakan, Tacurong, and Lighthouse.
Pr. Enrile Yata and Mr. Aldrin Heramil, SMM Executive Secretary and Treasurer, respectively, expressed optimism about the transitions, emphasizing the importance of using radio as a powerful tool to share the love of God.
As the stations embark on this chapter, their commitment to sharing the messages of hope and inspiration remains steadfast, ensuring that the airwaves resonate with the transformative power of God’s love! (Janine Genodipa and Honielyn Asoy/SMM Communication)