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In honor of its 111th Founding Anniversary, the West Visayan Conference joyfully hosted the 2nd Integrated Camp Meeting and 42nd EDL (Elders and Deacons League) Convention on April 13–19, 2025, held at the campus of Adventist Academy Iloilo, Bongco, Pototan, Iloilo.

With the theme “Hugpong: Una nga Patubas” (“Unity: The First Harvest”), the event served as a dynamic platform to foster community, grow in faith, and promote a shared mission to serve others.

More than just a celebration, the event was a holistic experience open to everyone—church members, leaders, guests, and even those curious to learn more about the Seventh-day Adventist faith and its purpose. It underscored the Adventist commitment to Total Member Involvement (TMI), inviting every individual to be part of a united movement toward spiritual growth and community transformation.

The week was filled with inspiring messages, transformational training, and uplifting worship experiences.

Distinguished speakers like Pastor Roger Caderma, the president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, emphasized the importance of the Holy Spirit in empowering the church’s mission, “There is encouragement—but without power, there is no result. We need the Holy Spirit to empower us. Alone, we can accomplish little; but together, we can go far.”

Pastor Arnel Gabin, vice -president for IEL-NDR, echoed this call with urgency, “The work is vast, and many areas still need the truth. The Lord is calling all WVC members to join in pressing the gospel forward… Time is running out. While we have time and strength, let us move together in this mission.”

Also present in the event was Pastor Rudy Baloyo and wife Virgie Baloyo, director of family and women's ministries for the Southern Asia Pacific Division.

The WVC administrators and directors thoughtfully structured an inclusive and relevant program featuring leadership training for elders and deacons, empowering sessions, youth and children development tracks for Adventurers, Pathfinders, Master Guides, and Public Campus Ministries, spiritual revival through music, Bible study, and united prayer, and community service orientations for those seeking practical ways to serve.

The highlight of the event was the baptism ceremony of 469 precious souls, representing the first fruits of the Harvest 2025 initiative—a vision for widespread evangelism and discipleship across the conference. It was a moment of joy and inspiration, reminding everyone that true transformation happens when the whole church unites in service.

As Ellen G. White reminds us, “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 195)

The services offered throughout the week aimed to empower individuals—whether Adventist or not—to live with purpose, serve with compassion, and grow in faith. The message was clear: God’s mission is for all people, and everyone has a place in His work.

In this historic gathering, the West Visayan Conference family stood as one—hugpong—to prepare for a greater harvest ahead.

This is only the beginning. May the passion, unity, and commitment sparked during this event ripple across our communities and inspire many to join the journey.

By Catherine Princetia Bernal | Hope Channel Western Visayas

The article's original version was published on the official Facebook page of the West Visayan Conference.