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SIBULAN, Philippines — More than 200 local church elders committed to leading public evangelistic crusades in 2026 during a mission-wide church elders evangelism orientation held Feb. 27–28 at the Negros Oriental-Siquijor Mission (NSM) gymnasium in Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

The event gathered field pastors and local church elders from 205 local churches in Tubtuban to coordinate a renewed outreach strategy themed “Focus on the Mission.” The initiative aimed to empower lay leadership to spearhead baptisms and community ministries across the region.

Pr. Eliezer “Joer” Barlizo Jr., president of the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC), called on the delegates to maintain the momentum of the early Christian church. During the Sabbath worship service, Barlizo drew parallels between the biblical transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua and the current mission.

“When great leaders pass, His instruction for mission remains: Focus on the mission,” Barlizo said.

The 205 elders who responded to the appeal have pledged to lead individual public efforts within their respective districts. Many of these leaders have already established a track record of lay-led evangelism, resulting in numerous baptisms prior to this formal commitment.

Pastor Gaudencio Buque Jr., ministerial association secretary, family ministries, chaplaincy, and Adventist Mission director for the East Central Philippine Union Conference, provided the theological framework for the mobilization. His lectures outlined a strategy modeled after the book of Acts, emphasizing a ministry that prioritizes building genuine friendships and addressing felt community needs before extending invitations to Bible study and baptism.

Following the instructional sessions, district delegates met for structured planning to align local outreach calendars with the Union’s quarterly harvest celebrations.

Pastor Elly Abejero, NSM President, expressed gratitude for the members' financial and spiritual commitment.

“The collaborative atmosphere enabled pastors and elders to set clear outreach directions tailored to their local church contexts,” Abejero said, noting that the mission remains focused on a "frontline evangelistic thrust."

As the orientation concluded, several delegates requested extended leadership training sessions for the coming year to further refine their missionary skills.

The Negros Oriental-Siquijor Mission is now entering a strategic planning phase, with over 200 churches preparing for the synchronized 2026 outreach cycle.

Lyn Lucero | ECPUC Communication Department Staff