Adventist Medical Center College (AMCC) held its first-ever Investiture and Dedication Ceremony at the AMCC Campus Church, formally dedicating its newly installed officers and reaffirming the institution’s commitment to faith-based leadership and academic excellence.

The historic event gathered administrators, representatives from sister institutions, church leaders, and local government officials, marking a significant milestone in the college’s continuing mission to serve both church and community.

Leadership Dedicated for Service

The ceremony highlighted the leadership team of AMCC led by Dr. Jimmy Adil, the sixth president of the college, together with key administrators:

    Pretzel Zuniga, PhD – Vice President for Academic Affairs
    Dr. Roger Lopez, EdD – Vice President for Student Affairs and Services
    Serwin Jondonero, MBA – Vice President for Finance

Dr. Alevir Pido, Education Director of the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC), formally presented the officers of the institution during the ceremony.

Dr. Adil, a respected academician and spiritual leader, carries a unique heritage of faith. His father, originally a Maguindanawon, later embraced the Seventh-day Adventist faith and eventually became an ordained minister. This legacy of faith and service continues through Dr. Adil as he assumes leadership of AMCC.

In his presidential address, Dr. Adil invited his fellow workers to “make him happy” by embracing a shared vision for the institution. He outlined this vision through the acronym AMCC:

A – Academic – AMCC exists because of its students. The institution must always be pro-student, prioritizing their growth and success.

M – Missional – AMCC must function as a center of influence for eternity, advancing the mission of the church.

C – Church – As a tertiary church institution, AMCC remains grounded in the Bible and guided by the counsel of Mrs. Ellen G. White.

C – Community – AMCC does not exist in isolation. Its presence must be felt in the community through meaningful service and engagement.

A Gathering of Church and Civic Leaders

The event was attended by representatives from sister institutions and local government units, reflecting strong community support for the college.

Among those present was Hon. Frederick Sia, Mayor of Iligan City, who delivered an inspirational message. A longtime friend of AMCC and of Dr. Adil, the mayor emphasized that the principles of good governance apply not only to government institutions but also to thriving private organizations such as AMCC.

“Good governance is not only for government institutions but also for all thriving private institutions such as AMCC,” Sia said.

He further highlighted the importance of integrity in leadership, adding:

“If a policy does not serve the people, it does not serve the mission.”

Atty. Marlene Young, Iligan City Councilor, introduced the mayor during the program. Representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) also conveyed their congratulations and support for the institution.

Their presence underscored the growing partnership between AMCC and the wider community in promoting quality education and service.

Message from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division

The keynote message was delivered by Elder Roger Caderma, President of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Introduced by Pastor Dante Obbus, SwPUC Executive Secretary, Elder Caderma emphasized the original vision behind the establishment of AMCC.

“The purpose of AMCC was to establish the presence of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in this city and its neighboring areas. Today, it has become a landmark of Adventist education and mission,” he said.

In support of the institution’s continued development, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division pledged $20,000 in financial assistance for the construction of the AMCC gymnasium.

Elder Caderma reminded the officers that leadership in Christian institutions is not about status but service.

“Leadership is not about privilege but about the opportunity to serve,” he said.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical example of King Solomon, he outlined a spiritual model of leadership using the acronym LEADER:

    L – Listen to the voice of God
    E – Empty oneself of pride
    A – Ask wisdom from God
    D – Discern what is right
    E – Exemplify leadership through personal example
    R – Respond faithfully to God’s calling

Charge to the Officers

The ceremony concluded with a charge to the AMCC officers delivered by Pastor Jerry Patalinghug, SwPUC President and Chair of the College Board. He challenged the leaders to remain faithful to the mission of Adventist education and to guide the institution with integrity, humility, and spiritual commitment.

As AMCC continues to grow, the ceremony symbolized more than the installation of officers—it affirmed the institution’s enduring mission to provide Christ-centered education and to strengthen the presence of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Iligan City and beyond.

RPido
Communication Department
Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC)