News

Tagbilaran, Bohol, Philippines (June 5, 2025)—Members and leaders of the Adventist-laymen's Services and Industries - Adventist Professional (ASI - AdPro) from all missions and conferences under the Central Philippine Union Conference now gather for the 2025 CPUC-wide ASI - Ad Pro Convention and ASI's 30th Anniversary Celebration.

Held at Reyna's The Haven and Gardens in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, the event takes place from today until June 8, 2025.

Themed "United for a Greater Purpose," the convention is attended by nearly 300 delegates eager to participate in this biennial gathering.

The convention serves as a vital platform for Adventist professionals and business individuals to inspire each other, network, share best practices, and strategize on how to further the mission of the Seventh-day Adventist Church through their various fields of expertise and business engagements.

The gathering commenced with a grand parade of delegates from various missions and conferences, all dressed in their colorful "Filipiniana and Barong Tagalog," the national costume of the Philippines.

Jonathan Lamorin, the president-elect of the ASI for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, inspired the participants with his compelling message centered on the event's theme: "United for a Greater Purpose."

"Do not be discouraged; do not give up, even if others won't or can't. Oftentimes, it is Satan's ploy to discourage God's laborers, but let us not allow our enemy to prevail," Lamorin urged, encouraging the delegates to persevere despite the obstacles and challenges they may encounter along the way.

In his message, Lamorin acknowledged the enthusiasm and dedication shown by the Negros Occidental Conference during the simultaneous evangelism initiative held in May. According to the official report, the NOC achieved the highest number of baptisms compared to other missions and conferences, totaling 780 baptisms.

On the other hand, Lamorin shared a moving experience that showed God's faithfulness during a devastating event: the sinking of a ship he had recently purchased for a new business venture amid a typhoon. Despite the pain of this incident, he explained how, when we make God a partner in all aspects of our lives, including business, He can transform huge disasters into blessings.

He quoted Hebrews 6: 10 to encourage everyone to remain ignited in doing the mission. It says, "For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love., which ye have showed toward his name…"

Adding to the event's highlights was the musical presentation of "Dimiao Children's Rondalla." They serenaded through the gala dinner, entertaining the attendees with their cultural and classical music.

"Dimiao Children's Rondalla" is a renowned ensemble of stringed instruments that once achieved recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records.

The grand opening continued into the evening, following a festive gala dinner, where each participating mission and conference delighted each other by showcasing their talents through vibrant cultural presentations. 

On a notable aspect, the 30th-anniversary celebration featured reflections on the past achievements of CPUC ASI, recognizing the dedication and contributions of countless lay members over three decades.

The event concluded late into the night; however, the delegates still eagerly look forward to the three remaining days of more learning, insights, fun and camaraderie.