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Leani L. Sunico secured second place, and Fevi Zamora placed third at the Spirit of Prophecy Quiz Bowl for the Southern Asia Pacific Division, held Feb. 9, 2025.

Sunico and Zamora are two of the three winners representing Central Philippines in the SSD-wide quiz. Sunico also represents her home mission, the Northwestern Panay Mission, while Zamora represents the Negros Occidental Conference.

Both participants achieved the same rank in the CPUC-wide SOP Quiz Bowl, which took place at the CPUC headquarters on Gorordo Avenue in Cebu City on Nov. 9, 2024. The first-place winner was Joanne Mae F. Lambrinto, also from the NOC, who ranked fourth among the Top Ten Finalists at the SSD level.

The final stage of the competition, organized by the Southern Asia Pacific Division (SSD), was held via a virtual platform. This event gathered quiz champions from various missions and conferences across the Southern Asia Pacific Region at the union-wide level.

All questions during the competition were derived from Ellen G. White's book "Messages to Young People." Ellen G. White was a highly influential American religious author and leader, considered a pivotal figure in the church's history. Her writings continue to have a lasting impact on Adventist beliefs and practices.

The SOP Quiz Bowl served multiple purposes, aiming to nurture young people's faith and knowledge. By focusing on "Messages to Young People," the quiz encouraged an in-depth study of Ellen G. White's counsel directed specifically at this age group.

Through this quiz challenge, the SOP leaders aimed to motivate young people to study inspirational books, which deepens their spiritual understanding. It inspires them to apply these principles in their daily lives, promoting spiritual growth and a stronger connection with God.

Pastor Eliezer "Joer" Barlizo Jr., president of the CPUC, expressed his joy and appreciation for the recent outcomes. "Praise God! Congratulations to Miss Sunico for securing second place, and to Miss Zamora for claiming third place. I also want to congratulate Miss Lambrinto for placing fourth among the Top 10 Finalists, as well as everyone who participated at the union level. The CPUC family is proud of you!"

"However, it is not just the grand prize or the monetary reward that matters; rather, it is your decision to participate in the in-depth study that makes you winners — winners in the kingdom of God. He delights in seeing His children sincerely studying His Word, as it signifies that you are inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you, not just today, but throughout your life," Pastor Barlizo added.

Miss Sunico, when asked about her secret to consistently placing second at both the CPUC and SSD levels, shared, "I always put God first in everything. I pray regularly and read at least one chapter of the Bible before studying the book 'Messages to Young People.'"

On the other hand, Miss Zamora also shared why she decided to join. "My first intention was to win the prize because it's a big amount and would help my sister, who's still studying."

"But while reading the book, my eagerness to know more about Jesus during the early days after my baptism was rekindled. I became more intentional. I no longer read it to win the prize but to win against my enemy—Satan."

"Then, I have this thought: "If I ever don't make it to the top, it's okay. I am already a winner because of the spiritual blessings the reading gives me," Miss Zamora added.

During an interview, Pastor Robert Baldoza, the SOP, publishing ministries, and communication director of the NPM, shared motivational insights and words of encouragement for everyone and those contemplating joining the quiz bowl this year.

He said, "We often limit ourselves by concentrating on what we believe we cannot achieve instead of embracing what God can do through us. Inspired counsel encourages us to move past self-doubt and step confidently into God's purpose."

He added that when we dedicate ourselves to Christ's service, our lives become threads of golden testimony, and heaven itself celebrates our transformation.

On the other hand, Pastor Eldyn Toledo, D. Min, director of the Ellen G. White Study Center and Spirit of Prophecy for the CPUC, shared his gratitude for the event's success.

"On behalf of the CPUC Ellen G. White Study Center and the SOP Department, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Leani Sunico for placing second and Fevi Zamora for placing third in the SSD-Wide Online Spirit of Prophecy Quiz Bowl held on Feb. 9, 2025. Your dedication and commitment to studying the Spirit of Prophecy are truly commendable."

Pastor Toledo also expressed profound gratitude to Pastor Barlizo Jr., Pastor Calev, CPUC executive secretary, and Pastor Renito Inapan, CPUC treasurer, for their unwavering support in ensuring the program's success.

He also extended sincere appreciation to Pastor Robert Baldoza, SOP coordinator for the NPM, and Pastor Joebert Arroz, SOP coordinator for the NOC, for their invaluable efforts in facilitating the participation of the finalists during the event.

"Your collective support and dedication have greatly contributed to the advancement of SOP education within our territory," Pastor Toledo added.

He also announced that there will be another SOP Quiz Bowl this year, with the grand prize being an all-expense-paid trip to Australia, as initially agreed. The selected book for study is "Christ's Object Lesson" by Ellen White. Additional details will be provided soon.