Hundreds of Adventist church members from across the eastern and western Camotes districts, alongside visitors from neighboring provinces, gathered at Mt. Macarungao Church in Western Poblacion, San Francisco, Camotes from April 22 to 25, 2026, for the Camotes Islands Federation of Churches Annual Gathering.
Guided by the theme “Grounded in the Bible, Focused on the Mission,” the four-day event aimed to strengthen spiritual life, promote inter-church unity, and equip members for active evangelism in preparation for the Second Coming of Christ.
Program Flow of Daily Activities
The gathering featured a balanced itinerary of spiritual enrichment and physical wellness. Each day began with a morning devotionals and a “fun run,” followed by mid-morning lectures centered on Christian life, ministry and service.
For the delegates, these devotionals, and worship services deepened their understanding of Scripture and encouraged them to apply biblical principles in daily living and ministry.
The five participating zones—distinguished by colors ranging from Gray and Yellow to Old Rose, Green, and Blue—competed in various afternoon sports, including volleyball, yoga ball, tennis, basketball, and badminton. As proof of eagerness to join the activities, their elimination rounds were completed two weeks before the actual federation gathering.
For the participants, these activities promoted physical wellness, team work, and fellowship, reflecting the church’s holistic approach to growth.
“The basketball games were orderly done. The officers sought the help of brethren who had the capability and capacity to conduct the game. No fights or negative things emerged. It was orderly and just pure fun,” Sandra Guisando, a delegate, stated.
The evenings were dedicated to creative and religious expression through group singing, original song composition, drama contests, and chain Bible verse memorization challenges.
The organizers ensured these activities would be emphazised as these activities enhanced biblical literacy, creativity, and active participation in evangelism.
Moreover, these competitions involved participation from various church sectors—including elders, women, youth, children, and widow-widower—highlighting an inclusive and participatory community in each of the five zones.
These zones were composed of churches from both the eastern and western districts of Camotes Islands, fostering unity and collaboration across the federation.
Spiritual Harvest
Among the significant highlights of the event was the baptism, following the election of the new set of Federation Officers. This spiritual harvest of the church’s evangelistic efforts from January to April 24, 2026, as well as the number of literature and Philippine Publishing House (PPH) books purchased, being recorded, measured the federation’s spiritual growth and commitment to holistic Christian learning and development.
Leadership and Spiritual Harvest
Moreover, the event drew high-level representation of church leaders. Pastor Eliezer “Joer” T. Barlizo, Jr., first president of the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC), served as the keynote speaker for the Hour of Worship on the Sabbath.
He was joined by Pastor Bernardino C. Maniego, president of the Central Visayan Conference (CVC), and a team of departmental directors.
“The Camotes Federation had numerous religious activities which highlighted the theme, and it is a good thing. Well done!” Pastor Maniego remarked, impressed by the high level of engagement.
Overcoming Challenges through Faith
The success of the 2026 gathering was due to overcoming logistical hurdles through prayers, cooperation, and God’s providence.
Finding a host venue was an initial concern until Elder Wilson V. Plenos and his family offered the newly built Mt. Macarungao Church.
Ensuring the full participation of all zones in the religious and social competitions and encouraging complete involvement were another aspects that raised initial worries.
“By God’s grace, all zones actively participated, strengthening unity and fellowship among the churches,” a federation officer said.
She mentioned that the food, prizes, logistics, and other expenses required considerable funds, and all those seemed like another mountain to climb. “However, we experienced God’s faithfulness during the process. Through the support from the Central Visayan Conference, matched by personal donations by church members, the needs were well-provided,” the officer added.
Looking Forward
Beyond the fellowship, attendees noted the practical improvements in this year’s organization.
Ranilo Garciano of Eastern Camotes shared his thoughts on the event, “The morning devotionals and lectures were attended by more brethren, unlike in past federations.”
He also commended the federation officers’ close monitoring of the attendance, their seamless preparations, and their thoughtfulness. “I also commend them for the gasoline allowance given to the delegates from the different churches. It may not be a big amount, but it’s the thought that counts.
Building on this momentum, the federation officers will continue to emphasize Bible-based training and youth engagement, keeping the spirit of “Mission for All” the driving force for the Adventist community in the Camotes Islands.
Ultimately, the Camotes Islands Federation of Churches Annual Gathering 2026 produced practical outcomes that strengthened both personal faith and church mission.
“All zones participated in all the religious and social contests, and it is a very wonderful feeling,” Sol B. Nudalo, Western Camotes church treasurer, said. “The officers’ goal was attained. Praise the Lord.”
Annaliza Almacin ⎸ Former