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The Adventist-laymen's Services and Industries (ASI) and Adventist Professionals (Ad Pro) of Negros Occidental Conference (NOC) held a convention on March 14-15, 2025.

The event began with a vespers meeting at Bacolod Central Church and continued with a full-day session at Acacia Hotel, Bacolod, drawing over 300 business owners and professionals from across the conference. Pastors, conference administrators, and department directors also joined the gathering, emphasizing the significance of the event.

Guest speakers included Pastor Arnel Gabin, vice president of Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle/Nurturing, Discipleship, and Retention for the Southern Asia-Pacific Division; Pastor Berdandino Maniego, communication director and ASI/Ad Pro coordinator for the Central Philippine Union Conference; and Jophone Galanza, president of the Negros Occidental Conference.

Other distinguished speakers were Bro. Abner Zanoria, ASI president for the East Visayan Conference; Engr. Condrado Avila, ASI president for the CPUC; and Mayor Norman Sabdao, CPUC Ad Pro president.

The program commenced with uplifting musical presentations by ASI/ADPRO members, setting the tone for a spiritually enriching experience.

Engr. Avila shared his personal testimony about how God transformed his life and business through ASI. "I cannot deny there was a time I joined secular activities with my clients. But when I became actively involved in ASI, everything changed. I realized that even without participating in drinking sprees, I still gained more clients because it is God who brings them to me," he shared.

Moreover, Mayor Norman Sabdao passionately spoke about religious liberty, assuring Adventist professionals that the Philippine Constitution's Article III, Section 5 guarantees the freedom to worship without discrimination. "As long as our constitution is not revised or repealed, our right to Sabbath worship shall forever be protected," he declared.

Pastor Bernie Maniego called for action as he presented plans for the ASI-ADPRO simultaneous evangelistic crusade on May 18-24. "This year, we are expecting a bigger, wider, and well-organized crusade. We must prepare ourselves to be part of a greater harvest for God's kingdom," he urged.

Moreover, Bro. Abner Zanoria, a well-known businessman and philanthropist, urged attendees to remain faithful stewards of their resources. "We are the high-value targets of the enemy because we are God's peculiar people. If we have millions but do not use them for God's work, then your wealth is meaningless," he emphasized.

Pastor Gabin reinforced the importance of staying mission-driven. He quoted Erton Köhler, saying, "If we are not focused on mission, we are hiding the patient's medicine." He reminded the professionals that their ultimate goal is not just business success but preparing people for Christ's return. Citing a study on the happiness index, he added, "Those who give selflessly without expecting anything in return tend to live longer and more fulfilled lives."

Mary Joy Nabat, one of the attendees of the event, described the convention as a life-changing experience. "I was truly blessed by the messages I heard. They inspired me to be more faithful in serving God, not just with my time but also with my resources and talents," she shared.

The convention concluded with a powerful commitment message from Pastor Jophone Galanza, who declared, "God has chosen us to be fruitful in His mission. Each one of us is called for a divine purpose." His words left a deep impact, inspiring participants to reaffirm their commitment to serve.

On the other hand, Engr. Delilah Gabitoya, NOC ASI president, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NOC leadership, district pastors, guest speakers, and ASI frontliners, acknowledging their tireless dedication and teamwork in making the event a success.

"I am overwhelmed by what God has done through this convention. The unwavering support from our leaders and every ASI member has truly made a difference. Above all, I praise God, who continues to provide for His work in these last days," Engr. Gabitoya said.

The convention ended with renewed dedication from Adventist professionals, empowered to use their influence, businesses, and professions to advance God's kingdom.

Pastor S. Joy Cantela, Communication Director/ASI-Ad Pro Coordinator for the Negros Occidental Conference

The article's original version is published on the official page of Hope Channel Bacolod.