Phuket, Thailand – August 28-31, 2025 - The ASI Asia-Pacific 2025 Convention kicked off with excitement and enthusiasm at the Phuket City Hotel, drawing over 520 delegates representing a diverse range of professions—entrepreneurs, educators, healthcare professionals, legal experts, and many others—gathered in Phuket for the much-anticipated ASI Convention. This year's event brought together executive officers from various unions, missions, and conferences, alongside directors from across the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, marking the largest delegation in the history of the convention. This year’s theme, “Builders of Faith: Reaping the Harvest in the Marketplace,” resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the integral role of faith in professional pursuits.

The opening night commenced with a vibrant parade featuring delegates adorned in their respective cultural attire, proudly carrying their national flags. The atmosphere was electric as representatives from different countries showcased their heritage through traditional costumes, creating a festival-like environment filled with excitement and camaraderie.

The delegates were formally welcomed by the outgoing ASI president, Jonathan Lamorin, whose joy was palpable as he acknowledged the remarkable turnout and the unwavering support of his fellow officers throughout his tenure.

The keynote address was delivered by Elder Roger Caderma, the president of the South-South Division (SSD). In a heartfelt message, he expressed gratitude to ASI for its integral role in furthering the church's mission—specifically, for contributing to the transformation of over 10,000 souls during various evangelistic meetings held throughout the year. His words resonated deeply with the audience, inspiring them to continue their vital work.

Throughout the convention, delegates participated in enriching morning and afternoon devotionals that featured inspiring messages. Additionally, various breakout sessions offered deep dives into relevant topics crucial for ministry effectiveness, such as “Ethical Entrepreneurship in a Secular Market,” “Rules of Order in the Christian Workplace,” “Harnessing Generative AI for Missions,” and “Making a Lasting Impact in Healthcare,” to mention a few.

During one impactful morning devotional, Pastor Barlizo, president of the Central Philippine Union Conference (CPUC), emphasized the importance of maximizing resources for the church's mission, reminding attendees that God rewards His faithful servants abundantly. Delegates were further motivated by powerful testimonies, including that of Bro. Jun Tumarong, a businessman from Western Mindanao. He shared, “In participating in the mission of the Church, I tend to forget and instead focus on His work. Because in the end, God takes care of my business. I started with a small store, and now God has blessed me with an eight-story building for my business.”

Steve Dickman, president of Outpost Centers International (OIC), along with Dr. Andi Hunsaker, president of NAD-ASI, captivated the audience by presenting a compelling picture of the church's mission from both historical and geographical perspectives. Their messages encouraged delegates to adopt a proactive stance in advancing the mission, underscoring that there is no place for complacency in their endeavors.

The culmination of the event featured a profound message by Dr. Dwain Neilson Esmond, writer and associate director at the Ellen G. White Estate, Inc. During the divine service and later at the commitment service, he urged delegates, stating, “God expects nothing but excellence from us as we bring Him into the marketplace.” He emphasized that individuals in the marketplace must embody the excellence of Jesus Christ because, “when quality work is done, God is glorified.”

In an inspiring call to action after white envelopes were distributed, Dr. Neilson made an appeal to delegates to give generously to ASI's ministries. The result was an overwhelming response, with collections and pledges amounting to a significant sum that would support future projects.

At the commitment service, he referenced 2 Timothy 6:12, encouraging delegates to “fight the good fight” as Paul did, and to “run the race—regardless of the weather conditions.”

Newly elected ASI board members for the term 2025-2027 were formally announced in the afternoon session. The new Executive Committee is as follows: President: Dr. Guntur Siboro President Elect: Engr. Meljune Orillosa Immediate Past President: Jonathan Lamorin Secretary/Treasurer: Pr. Segundino Asoy Vice President Finance: Anthony Chua Vice President of Communication: Ronald Takeuchi Vice President Logistics: Dr. Joan Flores Vice President Projects: Engr. Conrado Avila Vice President Evangelism: Junipher Tumarong Members at Large: Immanuel Tan and Donie Lustre

Jonathan Lamorin, the immediate past president of SSD-ASI, delivered a heartfelt valedictory address, expressing his gratitude to God for the unprecedented achievements during his leadership.

Moreover, Pastor Segundino Asoy, SSD Sabbath School Director and ASI Coordinator, said in an interview that he is delighted in witnessing how this organization has transitioned through the years. “This organization has continually drawn more members from different sectors of society who are Seventh-day Adventists. Today, they are unstoppable in advancing the mission of the church, bringing their best resources and talents to God’s service,” he said.

The delegation from the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference was led by Elder Jerry Patalinghug, President; Pr. Max Dante Obbus, Executive Secretary; and Mr. Chemuel Almocera, Treasurer, and Abundionito Cayme, SwPUC Sabbath Director and ASI Corrdinator, further strengthening the communal spirit of the convention.

By RVPido
SwPUC Dept