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The Adventist Community Services in Central Philippines (ACS-CPUC) is taking a significant step toward empowering and elevating the community by organizing a union-wide congress. From April 5 to 8, 2023, Adventists from all over the region gathered at the Adventist Academy Cebu (AAC) in Bulacao, Talisay City, Cebu to share knowledge, encourage one another, and make an enduring impact by being mobilized to be God's extension of kindness to others.

The purpose of the ACS Congress is to strengthen community service initiatives by providing a forum for discussing the most pressing issues confronting contemporary society. Aspects of this four-day event include providing aid to disaster victims, improving the living conditions of the underprivileged, promoting health and wellness, and addressing the social and emotional well-being of the larger community. 

The theme of the ACS Congress is "Global Disaster Preparedness: The Future Belongs to the Brave." This theme embodies the Adventist values of courage, preparedness, and resilience, as ACS-CPUC takes the lead in enhancing community resilience against the effects of natural disasters and accidents. 

The Philippines is frequently bombarded by infamous natural disasters every year. Due to its location in the Pacific Typhoon Belt, the Philippines experiences more than twenty typhoons each year. Its location within the Pacific Ring of Fire makes the Philippines susceptible to both volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Enabling the Adventist church's disaster response initiatives enables us to provide immediate aid to families impacted severely by these natural disasters.

Pastor James B. Rubrico, ACS Coordinator for the Central Philippine Union Conference, stated that the congress urges every ACS disaster response team to do more to aid those afflicted by severe natural calamities. Rubrico commended the Central Philippine Union Conference and the Adventist Academy Cebu administration, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) Executives, Mr. Prabhook Bandaratilleke, the Humanitarian Response coordinator for ADRA's Asia region, and many others for collaborating on this project of empowering the church in disaster preparedness.

"Organizing this disaster response convention is a wonderful reminder that the church's ministry is not limited to Bible study and evangelistic gatherings. Jesus' example encourages us to be a source of hope and inspiration for those in need," Rubrico stated. “

The training, according to Sarddie C. Amantillo, president of the ACS chapter in Negros Oriental-Siquijor (NSM), updated their disaster response skills. In addition, he emphasized that the participants acquired a wealth of knowledge from the numerous activities and presentations and were eager to implement it in their respective districts. "As we experience more and more natural disasters, it is crucial that we equip ourselves with knowledge of preparedness, not only for our own benefit but ultimately so that we can help others during disasters," he said.  

Due to sponsorships and individuals who sent delegates from their regions, a number of delegates were able to attend the meeting despite financial difficulties. Mr. Ervert Soterania, interim commander of the Advent Rescue Motorized unit in the Western Visayas (WVC) region, described the unique and rewarding experiences of the unit. 

"Joining the simulations and participating in group activities adds a sense of value to what we do as a church and motivates us to equip ourselves for the purpose of the mission," said Soterania.

The event also covered the mission and responsibilities of coastguards, crime, and fire prevention, psychological first aid, and simulation exercises conducted by elite emergency groups from conferences and missions. 

The Recognition Ceremony and the Commitment & Dedication Service on Saturday afternoon boosted the delegates' spirits because, for the first time, they were duly recognized by the ACS-CPUC, Inc. and dedicated to the Lord by Pastor Violeto F. Bocala. Over five hundred attendees departed the concluding event with satisfied expressions, praising God for the indelible experiences provided by the ACS ministry.

With its roster of motivational speakers, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, the ACS Congress was considered an unforgettable event for all delegates interested in making a positive impact on their communities. 

Nadeth Quinto, CPUC Communication Department