Workers of the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC), comprising the “Love Care Group,” conducted five simultaneous evangelistic events from March 16–21, navigating treacherous sea crossings to reach the remote island of Kinatarcan in Sta. Fe, Northern Cebu.
The Love Care Group, one of three administrator-led teams, was led by Pastor Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo Jr., ECPUC’s first president, and Ana Liza Facon, education director, Adventist Possibility Ministries coordinator, and the Love Care Group leader.
The group divided its efforts across five barangays of Kinatarcan Island. The venues included Pasil SDA Church, where Pastor Barlizo conducted his Moral Recovery Program, and Brgy. Bitoon, where Facon conducted her Family Life and Bible Seminar together with Fe Pigon, former CPUC women’s ministries director.
The other two venues in Kinatarcan were at Hagdan Covered Court, where Pastor Ildefonso Baquilabat, ECPUC stewardship director, and his wife Belce Glicere, held their “Restored by Grace” series, and at Nineveh SDA Church in Pianas Hagdan, where Pastor Jomar Compuesto, ECPUC executive secretary, held his “All About Jesus” evangelistic seminar.
Meanwhile, Pastor Godofredo Romanillos Jr., ECPUC communication, Sabbath School, and personal ministries director, conducted his “Moral Recovery Seminar for a Happy Family” at the Langub Old Barangay Hall.
A Perilous Crossing
Geography posed significant challenges for the mission. The group crossed the open waters of the Visayan Sea to reach the barangays of Bitoon, Hagdan, and Langub on Kinatarcan Island.
Members of the care group narrowly avoided disaster when their pump boat’s engine failed amidst heavy swells. After several distress calls went unanswered, the team was eventually rescued and towed to safety. The group credited divine intervention for a key decision made before departure: the boat captain had opted to leave behind several heavy cargoes while still at the port. Looking back at the rough conditions, the group realized the vessel likely would have capsized had it been carrying the extra weight.
“Had it not been for God’s wisdom, it would have been easier for our boat to turn upside down,” Pastor Barlizo said, recalling the incident.
Service and Support
While some members arrived at the start of the week, others followed on Thursday to bolster the outreach. The team conducted house-to-house visits, singing and prayers, and followed up with Bible studies for interested residents.
“The warm hospitality of the local church members was overwhelming,” the group shared. The community provided support and meals for the workers throughout the week.
Director Facon also visited the Adventist Elementary School in Kinatarcan, giving her the opportunity to meet the students and faculty before the school closed for the summer vacation.
The Love Care Group is one of three administrator-led teams within ECPUC, created to involve union workers directly in field evangelism and community service.
The Harvest
The simultaneous evangelistic series resulted in 28 baptisms, bringing great joy to the group. This outcome reflected the anticipated result of coordinated efforts and collaboration with local church members. Tarsis SDA Church brought 8 individuals for baptism; Bitoon and Langub had 4 each; Nineveh had 5; and Pasil had 7.
The baptism took place on the shores of Langub and was attended by local church members and members of the Love Care Group.
“The local church members were all enthusiastic in doing the mission and were all extra accommodating,” one of the care group members said.
Others also shared their wonderful experiences during the nightly programs. “Even their children are attentive. They listen well through adults’ sessions.”
The Love Care Group returned home inspired and eager to continue mission work closer to their communities.
“Each one’s gift is surprising. While many of us can speak well before a crowd, I’m surprised that some are truly good at teaching children’s classes and giving Bible studies,” another Love Care Group member said.
By Lyn Lucero | East Central Philippine Union Conference