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Central Philippine Union Conference called for a special constituency meeting, primarily to approve and recommend its reorganization plan to the General Conference through the Southern Asia-Pacific Division.

The said reorganization plan is to bifurcate CPUC into two unions: the East Central Philippine Union Conference and the West Central Philippine Union Mission.

The meeting took place on Zoom last Jan. 27, 2025, and was chaired by Pastor Eliezer "Joer" Barlizo Jr., the CPUC president.

Delegates from all missions and conferences across CPUC attended and participated in the event via Zoom or in person at its headquarters in Gorordo Ave., Cebu City.

In-person attendees included Pastor Roger Caderma, president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, along with two other administrators: Pastor Mamerto Guingguing, associate executive secretary, and Pastor Jacinto Adap, treasurer.

The plan for the said reorganization has been under discussion since the last quarter of 2024, prompting leaders to consider several aspects of its implementation. As a result, a special constituency meeting was held to take the first required step toward the said goal.

During the meeting, some delegates questioned the necessity of the reorganization. While some focused on the sentimental ties to the organization, others expressed concerns about the new union's ability to stand on its own and thrive in all aspects.

Pastor Violeto Bocala, a retired president of the SSD, addressed the concern by stating, "For me, it is necessary because God's work is advancing, and we need to do this to expedite the work." He also highlighted that the distribution of responsibilities has become challenging, particularly since the CPUC has significantly expanded with its eight local missions and conferences.

Pastor Guingguing elaborated on the policies that govern the organization of new local missions or fields, referencing the General Conference Working Policy for 2023-2024.

According to GC WP 2023-2024 B 65 10, any proposals must be reviewed by the respective union executive committee when a complete representation of the conferences, missions, fields, sections, and institutions within the union is present.

Additionally, proposals to organize regions or groups of churches into new missions, fields, or sections can be initiated by the conference, mission, field, section, by a group of churches, by the union, or by the division.

Unanimously approved by the delegates, pending the decision from SSD and the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church after careful deliberations, the proposed name for the new unions are the following: 

East Central Philippine Union Conference, comprising ECPUC, Central Visayan Conference, East Visayan Conference, Negros Oriental-Siquijor Mission, and Samar Mission.

West Central Philippine Union Mission, comprising WCPUM, West Visayan Conference, Negros Occiental Conference, Northern Panay Mission, Romblon Mission.

The proposed location for the new union, which was initially approved after discussions regarding accessibility, safety, and other factors, is in Bongco, Pototan, Iloilo City. However, these initial names and the proposed location are still subject to the approval of the SSD and GC. 

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of former Congresswoman Daryl Grace Abayon, wife of former Rep. Harlin C. Abayon, who presented a land donation for an Adventist Church and mission office in Barangay Old Rizal, Catarman, Northern Samar. The donation includes 2,126 square meters for the church and 6,993 square meters for the Samar Mission Office.

In a special moment of reflection and thanksgiving, Pastor Caderma, along with the attendees both in-person and on Zoom, dedicated her and her husband's advocacy and commitment to the Lord's work in prayer.

Pastor Caderma also brought to the Lord her desire to continue their mission of serving their fellow Adventists, particularly in the fight for Sabbath freedom.

On the other hand, during the third part of the event, CPUC directors outlined their plans for 2025 and requested support in encouraging every church member to participate in the activities presented.

The special constituency meeting concluded with a commitment message from Pastor Bocala, encouraging everyone to continue God's work, just as the Adventist pioneers like the Waldenses stood firm in their faith despite persecution.