The Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC) held a solemn Installation, Commitment, and Dedication Ceremony for its union, mission, and conference administrators, as well as union directors, on March 16, 2026. The event took place at the SwPUC Guest House Function Hall and was themed "Celebrating Faithful Leadership and Service."

Attendees included mission and conference administrators, union officers, and departmental directors, all coming together in a spirit of unity and dedication to continue serving in God’s work.

In his welcome remarks, Mr. Nuelin Sanes, affectionately known as "Papa Bing," the Treasurer of SwPUC, emphasized the collaborative nature of leadership by stating, "Leadership is not a journey taken alone." He underscored the importance of teamwork and shared responsibility in ministry.

The keynote address, his third consecutive, was delivered by Elder Roger Caderma, President of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD). He underlined that the event's theme reflects a foundation of excellence in leadership. He described leaders as coaches and facilitators who guide and empower others. Stressing the importance of timely decision-making, he remarked, “A late action is more expensive.”

Elder Caderma elaborated that effective leadership includes several dimensions, such as visionary leadership, spiritual leadership, and growth-oriented leadership. He emphasized that leaders must be both decisive and attentive, encompassing several dimensions, including visionary and spiritual, and stated, “Leaders must be decision-makers and good listeners.” He concluded by affirming that true excellence in service is achieved only when Christ remains at the center: “Service will become excellent when Christ is the center.”

Moreover, Elder Caderma led the reading of the commitment litany and formally installed the newly elected officers and directors in their positions.

During the ceremony, Pr. Max Dante Obbus, SwPUC Executive Secretary, formally presented the newly installed officers—from the union level down to the conference and mission fields—as well as the union directors.

A special dedication prayer was offered by Elder Wendel Serrano, former SwPUC President, committing the leaders to God's guidance. Prior to the prayer, he suggested that such a meaningful program be institutionalized in the SwPUC bylaws, describing it as a “very good program.”

In response, Pr. Jerry Patalinghug, SwPUC President, shared a message based on Philippians 2:13, reminding the leaders that “it is God who works in us.” He introduced the acronym FAITH to characterize Christ-centered leadership:

F – Fortified by faith
A– Available at all times
I – Indefatigable in fulfilling the mission
T – Teachable for growth
H – Happily serving the Lord

The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment among the leaders to serve with excellence, humility, and faithfulness. The entire event was livestreamed through Hope Channel South, with Dr. Alevir Pido serving as the host. This allowed a broader audience to witness this significant spiritual milestone.

RPido  
SwPUC ComDept.