The East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC) officially held the commitment and installation service for its newly elected leaders for the 2026-2030 quinquennium. The ceremony, held Friday, Feb. 13, at the ECPUC headquarters in Cebu City, was officiated by Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD).
Leaders from the SSD, various local missions and conferences, and from medical and educational institutions across the ECPUC territory attended the event.
In his charge to the officers and directors, Pastor Caderma drew deep parallels to the biblical leadership of Nehemiah. He emphasized that spiritual success is rooted in divine communion rather than human effort.
“He spent two-thirds of his time interceding and communing with God, asking for divine guidance, and the result was astounding.
He stated that it was this deep spiritual encounter that inspired the people to rally behind the rebuilding of Jerusalem. “It is wonderful to see what happens when leaders and their people maintain a strong relationship with God.”
Key Leadership Frameworks
Caderma introduced a repurposed acronym, “A.I.D.S.,” to outline the essential components of a visionary leader:
The A.I.D.S. framework defines vision as a strategic journey that begins with Aspiration, in which ambitious “Grand Slam” goals are achieved through the disciplined accumulation of small, incremental wins. This pursuit is fueled by Inspiration, an inner passion that transforms labor into a tireless joy, and is guided by Dreams that allow a leader to visualize what does not yet exist. Ultimately, this process culminates in Sight (Foresight)—the spiritual and mental acuity to perceive hidden realities and future directions that remain invisible to those looking only with their natural eyes.
Nehemiah didn’t just command; he said, “Let us arise and build.” By setting himself as an example, he was selling the vision, or the program, because when people understand and “buy into” the mission, resources and support follow naturally.
A Call to Courage
During the litany of installation, Pastor Kerry Estrebilla, SSD associate secretary, reminded them of the key to moving forward faster. “We have to go on bended knees. And as you take your responsibility, please remember the promise of the Lord in Joshua 1: 9, “Be strong and of good courage. The Lord will be with you wherever you go. May your leadership bring glory to God.”
The service concluded with a song and a prayer of consecration by Pastor Caderma, followed by an acknowledgment from ECPUC President, Pastor Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo Jr., who expressed his commitment to leading the union toward its mission-driven goals.
Lyn Lucero/ECPUC Communication Department