The Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC) welcomed 2026 in a spirit of humility and devotion, as leaders, members, and families gathered in prayer, opening their hearts to God’s Word during the global Ten Days of Prayer initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

This year's theme, "Unleashed," highlights the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in each individual’s life, preparing them to fully engage in the church's mission. 

Joining millions of Adventists around the world, the SwPUC community dedicated ten days to united prayer, underscoring their total dependence on God at the dawn of the new year. The initiative emphasized the power of collective prayer to fortify faith, renew spiritual commitment, and seek divine guidance for personal lives, families, and church ministries.

Throughout the observance, participants assembled in churches, homes, and online platforms to meditate on Scripture, offer intercessory prayers, and reflect on God’s leading. The entire duration was marked by an atmosphere of reverence and expectancy, as members sought revival, reformation, and a deeper connection with Christ.

The event was profoundly marked by heartfelt testimonies that revealed its deep personal impact. With tears in her eyes, Mrs. Marife Patalinghug testified to God’s sustaining grace through a difficult holiday season, which included her mother’s hospitalization and stroke, and expressed deep thankfulness for the unwavering support of her spiritual family. Mrs. Girlie Benasahan underscored the vital guidance of the Holy Spirit in aligning daily choices with God’s will. Mr. Romy Lamputi described a powerful inner transformation—a deliberate slowing down, a heightened sensitivity to God’s love, and a strengthened trust in divine intervention. Meanwhile, Mrs. Nympha Obbus distilled her experience into three resonant truths: prayer turns fear into peace, reliance on the Spirit instills unshakable confidence, and the Ten Days of Prayer must evolve from a program into a lifelong practice.

In his final message, Pastor Jerry Patalinghug emphasized that beginning the year on bended knees sets the tone for spiritual growth and mission-focused living. The Ten Days of Prayer also served as a powerful reminder of the church’s global unity, as believers across nations and cultures prayed with one purpose and one faith.

The first ten days were blessed with impactful speakers and transformative topics that reshaped perspectives and inspired total transformation as SwPUC embarked on its various mission projects.

The program featured the following speakers and topics:
- Pastor Michael Capapas: Knowing Jesus as Our Living Savior
- Pastor Jerrymil Pamonag: Aligning Ourselves with Kingdom Priorities  
- Pastor Roxie Joy P. Pido: Humbly Come Together in the Mind of Christ
- Pastor Jimmy V. Adil: Meet Jesus When He Surprises Us  
- Pastor Judyben G. Cabil: Repent and Be Saturated by the Holy Spirit
- Pastor Arnel L. Benasahan: Boldly Stand for Christ and Follow Him Fully  
- Dr. Alivir P. Pido: Disciple Children and All Generations to Speak for Jesus 
- Pastor Elvin R. Salarda: Love Our Family of Faith as Jesus Does 
- Pastor Junifer C. Colegado: See and Care for the Forgotten  
- Pastor Max Dante B. Obbus: Practice Radical Generosity

As the program came to a close, members expressed renewed hope and commitment to live out their faith through service and obedience. With strengthened resolve, the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference looks ahead to 2026, trusting that God will continue to guide and bless His people as they progress in mission and ministry.