Dr. Jan Harry Cabungcal, a neuroscientist and assistant to Adventist World Radio for Global Evangelism, partnered with Pastor Ricardo De Asis, a church pastor in East Visayan Conference, in urban ministries, focusing on the Ormoc City’s elites.
The urban evangelism, which took place on November 25-30, 2024, had two daily sessions. The first session, from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., was held at Ormoc City Hall with the city government workers at 300 people per batch. The second was at Ormoc City Seventh-Day Adventist Church from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Personnel from the Philippine Army, Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas, Bureau of Fire Protection, and officers from the Maritime Police and local police office attended these evening sessions.
This event, featuring Dr. Cabungcal, marked the fourth iteration of Pastor De Asis’ elite ministry initiative, themed “City Outreach: The Call of Duty.” The series has previously hosted Pastor Heshbon Buscato, the communication director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, as the guest speaker for Season 3 from May 26 to June 1, 2024.
Since this urban evangelism started on May 14-20, 2023, Pastor De Asis has reached the hearts of the government’s elite figures and personnel of government agencies and institutions through mental health advocacy.
He understood the need for regular mental health classes for government leaders because of the high-pressure environment they work in, which can contribute to stress, anxiety, and burnout. Prioritizing mental well-being improves decision-making, contributing to better leadership and public service.
Furthermore, when leaders openly discuss mental health, it sets a positive example for society, encouraging others to prioritize their own well-being. By understanding mental health challenges, leaders are more likely to advocate for supportive policies and resources.
“Offering these lectures is an ethical responsibility for government institutions, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of their employees,” Pastor De Asis said.
One of the highlights of this 4th season of city evangelism was that Pastor Cabungcal, alongside Pastor De Asis, was able to discuss mental health matters with Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez and husband Rep. Richard Gomez, a house representative of Leyte’s 4th district, and Filipino actor. The gathering concluded with a dedicatory prayer offered by the ministers for these leaders of Ormoc City.
Another highlight was the decision of a nurse and a police officer to accept Jesus through baptism. The Holy Spirit convicted many hearts during the appeal, and thus, more baptisms are expected in the coming days.
When asked about future plans, Pastor De Asis said he would work on this advocacy in a new dimension and elevated approaches, focusing on target audiences. He also said he would continue inviting mental health experts to serve the city better from other perspectives.
Pastor De Asis earned the title of life coach and mental health advocate to PNP, BFP, PA, PCG, and the Department of Health. Aside from conducting regular mental health classes with these heroes in uniform, he also regularly meets with various Local Government Units, students, and faculty in some colleges and secondary schools.
A related article was posted on the official Facebook page of the Coast Guard District Eastern Visayas.