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A total of 72 people were baptized following a week-long simultaneous evangelistic crusade across the municipalities of Almeria, Kawayan, and Culaba in Biliran Province, from May 10 to 16, 2026, church leaders announced.

The joint initiative, aimed at expanding outreach in high-need areas, featured 10 simultaneous meetings held at sites organized by district leaders, church elders, and local brethren. The events received administrative and financial support from the East Central Philippine Union Conference (ECPUC) and the East Visayan Conference (EVC).

"All glory to God for the successful simultaneous crusade," a district representative said, expressing gratitude to the guest speakers, who were led by the ECPUC and EVC presidents. "We are grateful for the opportunity that this event was held in our district."

The joint evangelistic efforts comprised four meeting sites in Almeria, four in Kawayan, and one in Culaba. These events concluded with a mass baptism held at Poblacion, Kawayan.

Kawayan recorded the highest regional turnout with 38 baptisms, followed by Almeria with 31 and Culaba with three.

The speakers and their specific meeting locations included:

• Pastor Eliezer Barlizo Jr. at Barangay Pili, Almeria
• Pastor Jomar Compuesto at Almería, Población
• Pastor Ricardo De Asis Jr. at Barangay Agpangi, Naval
• Pastor Bartman Barrientos at Barangay Iyusan, Almeria
• Pastor Jesriel Lucero at Barangay Buyo, Kawayan
• Pastor John Carillo at Barangay Bulalacao, Kawayan
• Pastor Jephuneh Palarao at Barangay Burabod, Kawayan
• Pastor Apolonio Pastera at Barangay Inasuyan, Kawayan
• Pastor Samuel Salloman at Barangay Bool, Culaba
• Moses S. Corrro at Naval, Biliran

For the leaders and church members involved, God’s hand was evident. Despite several logistical challenges from the preparation phase through completion, particularly regarding local financing, initial coordination, and securing nightly audience attendance, God granted victory. Local church members were motivated to assist by inviting the nearby communities and providing transport support to maintain stable attendance at each venue.

Pastor Jerome Tapaya, pastor of Almeria - Kawayan - Culaba District, said, “Finally, the many unentered places in these districts have been penetrated through these joint evangelistic meetings because our brothers and sisters have united together in one heart and purpose for this sacred work.”

Lyn Lucero | East Central Philippine Union Conference