CAMPUTHAW, Cebu City – Prompted by a growing global need to strengthen financial oversight and combat a rise in audit disclaimers, the treasury evaluation team from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) has officially commenced its two-day treasury evaluation at the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC) headquarters on Sept. 14.
Marking the union’s first such comprehensive review in 22 years—since 2004—the evaluation program opened with a morning devotional session, grounding the rigorous administrative inspection in spiritual reflection.
The evaluation team, spearheaded by Pastor Jacinth Adap, SSD treasurer, included Atty. Evin Villaruben, SSD associate treasurer; Shekinah Sibala, risk management services director; and others.
Adap delivered the devotional’s message. Drawing from Psalm 126, he emphasized three points for ministry and financial stewardship: remembering past faithfulness, praying for restoration, and continuing to plant seeds in faith despite trials and tears.
He told attendees that while human effort matters, God controls the results, and true service depends on His grace.
“Brothers and sisters, there are times when we need to look back, not to live in the past, but to remember the faithfulness of God. Look back at your life. How many problems did you think you would never get through? How many nights did you cry? How many prayers did you think had no answer?” Adap said, guiding his audience to reflect on God’s goodness amid trials and setbacks.
Following the sermon, Villaruben said in a message that the event is the first treasury evaluation for the union in 22 years. He said the review was prompted by a global increase in financial stewardship issues and more audit reports with disclaimers of opinion.
The evaluation covers 10 areas, including bylaws, mission alignment, financial policies, and remuneration. Villaruben said unions must extend these evaluations to local organizations and academies.
“Right now, in the General Conference, there is a move to strengthen the policy on financial stewardship, to give teeth to the policy so that when leaders do not adhere to the policies, then there is a proposal that will allow the constituent to replace or change the administration to strengthen the stewardship of financial resources,” Villaruben said, stressing the significance of the evaluation.
As the first day of evaluations concludes, the assessment team will resume its thorough review Sept.15, continuing its mission to strengthen financial stewardship and governance across the Here is the corrected, enhanced, and edited version of your sentence, keeping it professional and polished for a straight news report:
Pastor Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo Jr., the first president of the ECPUC, expressed gratitude for the evaluation team’s arrival, saying the comprehensive assessment will drive organizational improvement and help correct improper practices across the union.
He further instructed his subordinates to be fully present and cooperative with the evaluation team, ensuring they provide all necessary information and support throughout the process.
By Lyn Lucero ⎸ East Central Philippine Union Conference Communications