The Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC), under the leadership of Youth Director Pastor Junifer C. Colegado, expressed full support and active participation in the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD)-wide Senior Youth Leadership (SYL) Summit, held at Mountain Provinces Mission, Baguio City, from August 27 to 31, 2025. Youth directors from all SwPUC missions and conferences, together with their delegates, affirmed the union’s continuing commitment to Christ- centered youth ministry and leadership development.r

Delegates came from across SwPUC: eight from Central Mindanao Mission (CMM), six from North Central Mindanao Conference (NCMC), two from Northeastern Mindanao Mission (NeMM), seven from Western Mindanao Conference (WMC), and one from Zamboanga Peninsula Mission (ZPM).r

The summit comprised three specialized training tracks: the Senior Youth Leadership Series, the Public Campus Ministry (PCM) Certification, and the Ambassador Training Series. From these training tracks, five delegates graduated from the SYL Summit, and two were commissioned under the SYL Program. These outcomes testify to the delegates’ dedication to grow not only in leadership skills but also in mission-focused service for Christ, preparing them for greater responsibilities in their local contexts.r

The summit was guided by key church leaders: Pastor Heshbon Buscato, SSD Youth Director; outgoing SSD Youth Director Dr. Petronio Genebago, now transitioning to the General Conference; and Pastor Busi Mbulazi Khumalo, General Conference Youth Director. Their presence and counsel provided both spiritual strength and a global vision for youth leadership and discipleship.r

One important outcome was the adoption of a standardized uniform for SYL graduates and commissioned leaders. This decision, reached collaboratively among Union Youth Directors, reflects the unity and shared mission that marked the gathering and symbolizes the identity of youth leaders across the division.r

More than training, the SYL Summit became a Spirit-filled, Christ-centered experience. Delegates not only developed leadership skills but were also deeply reminded of their spiritual calling—to serve Christ, His church, and the wider community.r

For SwPUC, the impact of this summit is lasting. With youth directors and delegates fully engaged, the union reaffirmed its mission to equip young leaders who are grounded in faith, prepared for service, and committed to Christ’s commission. The SYL Summit 2025 stands as a milestone in empowering the next generation of leaders to rise, serve, and shine for Christ—until He comesr

By Pastor Junifer Colegado
SwPUC Youth Ministries Director