June 2
We were invited by brother Lunes Sagmayao to conduct a Bible study in Pakak, Kalinga. Since it was my first visit to the area, I initially thought it was a newly established congregation. I also learned that the brethren have begun the construction of their chapel building. At present, the congregation gathers for worship and Bible studies in the home of brother Lunes, where we also held our study.
Before the Bible study began, we went around the community distributing Bible tracts and inviting people to attend. We are thankful that several individuals accepted the invitation and joined us for the study. brother Jay Gumpad delivered the lesson, faithfully sharing God's Word with all who were present.
June 3
For our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, the elders invited brother Gerald Ganela to preach. He serves as the preacher for the congregations in Babalag and San Pedro, Rizal, Kalinga. In addition to his work as a gospel preacher, he is also a professional school teacher.
Whenever the school year ends, he faithfully joins us in various evangelistic efforts and preaching activities. We are grateful that he was able to be with us during this visit and to encourage the congregation through the preaching of God's Word.
He delivered an excellent lesson on "Friendship and Peer Pressure" based on Proverbs 13:20, reminding us of the importance of choosing wise companions and the influence our associations have on our spiritual lives.
June 4
We continued our monthly Bible study in San Luis as scheduled during the first week of the month. brother Fernando Duque was originally assigned to deliver the lesson. However, he arrived a little later than expected because he had traveled from Alcala, which is approximately an hour away, and encountered heavy traffic along the way.
While waiting for brother Fernando to arrive, brother Jimmy was asked to present the first lesson. He delivered an encouraging message entitled "How Do We Live?" When Brother Fernando arrived, he also shared an excellent lesson on "Thou Shall Not Covet," emphasizing the importance of contentment and guarding our hearts against sinful desires.
June 5
We attended a gospel meeting in Maligaya, Tumauini, where brother Victor Sinon and his son are faithfully preaching. The meeting was held in a new location—the former home of brother Victor's uncle. Although the house had been abandoned after the family relocated to another town, they were able to acquire it through a rent-to-own agreement. The brethren have already begun repairing and improving the property, and we are thankful that they now have a more suitable place to gather for worship.
Brother Jay delivered the first lesson, "The Gospel That Saves Us," followed by brother Rody, who preached on "Heed God's Warning." We rejoice that five precious souls obeyed the gospel during the meeting. They were all members of the Quines family, making their decision to follow Christ especially encouraging.
One of those baptized was brother Romeo Quines, who is paralyzed. Because one side of his body cannot move, several brethren assisted him as he was baptized. His determination to obey the gospel despite his physical condition was truly inspiring. We kindly ask for your prayers for brother Romeo's recovery, that the Lord may strengthen him physically as he continues to grow in his new life in Christ.
June 7
I had the opportunity to teach during our Bible study in Tuguegarao, covering the first half of John 19 (verses 1–24). During the worship service, brother Rody preached a sermon from Jonah chapter 1. At the invitation, we rejoiced as three young girls responded in obedience to the gospel.
In the afternoon, we traveled to the congregation in Palca. Brother Robert delivered the lesson on "The One True Church." Although it was not the lesson he had originally prepared, he chose to present it because we had several visitors in attendance. We are thankful that the visitors were able to hear the biblical teaching concerning the Lord's church.
Later, we continued to the congregation in Dagupan, where we were blessed to have brother Emer Yuson join us. I had invited him after we met at the gospel meeting in Limus, where he had previously invited me to preach. Brother Emer delivered an encouraging lesson from Revelation 2:10, reminding the congregation to remain faithful to the Lord even in the face of trials, with the promise of receiving the crown of life.
We were invited by Brother Dennis Yuson to join the Bible tract distribution in Virginia, Piat. I was only able to arrive later in the activity because I first needed to go to my daughter's school to purchase the books she needed for her classes.
By the time I arrived, the tract distribution was already nearing its conclusion. Nevertheless, I was thankful to have the opportunity to participate and distribute several Bible tracts. We pray that the materials we shared will reach honest hearts and encourage many to study God's Word.
June 10
For our midweek service here in Tuguegarao, Brother Rody preached an encouraging lesson entitled "The Christian Under Pressure." His message reminded the congregation that Christians will inevitably face trials, difficulties, and various forms of pressure in life. However, through steadfast faith, trust in God, and faithful obedience to His Word, we can remain strong and continue serving the Lord regardless of the challenges we encounter.
June 11
We were invited by brother Manny Pader to conduct a Bible study in Bagunot, Baggao. The study was held at the home of the Paat family, who graciously opened their house for the occasion. They requested the Bible study as part of the celebration of their son's birthday, desiring that God's Word be preached not only to their family but also to their neighbors. They also asked for prayers, expressing their gratitude to God for His many blessings.
Brother Jay delivered the lesson entitled "What Is the Will of God for You?" The message encouraged everyone in attendance to seek God's will through His Word and to live lives that are pleasing to Him. We are thankful for families like the Paat family who choose to honor God on special occasions by sharing the gospel with others and giving Him thanks for His goodness.
June 14
I was able to conclude my portion of our study through the Gospel of John by teaching John 19:25–42, covering the final events surrounding the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. During the worship service, brother Rody preached an encouraging lesson from Jonah chapter 2, emphasizing God's mercy toward those who humbly repent and turn back to Him.
In the afternoon, we traveled to the congregation in Palca. We were blessed to have brother Lino Darauay, one of the elders of the Tuguegarao congregation, join us. He and brother Jun Bassig had previously asked if they could accompany us in our afternoon preaching work since they currently do not have a local congregation where they can preach on Sunday afternoons. Brother Lino delivered an excellent lesson entitled "Why Worship Is Important," reminding the congregation of the privilege and responsibility of worshiping God according to His will.
Later, at the congregation in Dagupan, brother Jun Bassig preached from John 2:1–12, the account of the wedding at Cana. His lesson highlighted Jesus' first recorded miracle, demonstrating His divine authority and encouraging us to place our complete trust in Him.
June 16
We were invited by brother Jonathan Villa, a newly converted former pastor of the Church of the Living God in San Luis, to conduct a Bible study at Abbut Bridge with a group of people from Magnao, Malalinta. Those who attended were members of the same religious group to which brother Jonathan had formerly belonged. Because of his desire for them to learn the truth, he invited us to introduce them to the biblical teaching concerning the Lord's church.
Brother Rody presented the lesson on the Lord's church, carefully explaining its origin, nature, and the importance of being a member of the church established by Christ. At the conclusion of the study, the invitation was extended, and we rejoiced as fifteen precious souls obeyed the gospel.
Only one person chose not to respond that day. However, we later learned that she was baptized the following Sunday during the worship service in Magnao. We thank God for opening this wonderful door for the gospel and for the courageous stand brother Jonathan took in leading many of his former fellow members to the truth. We pray that these new Christians will remain steadfast and continue to grow in their faith.
June 17
We were invited by brother Victor Ramos to Santiago, Quirino, Isabela, to assist in the preaching work. The trip from Tuguegarao took approximately an hour and a half. In addition to our visit, brother Victor arranged for us to distribute Bible tracts throughout the village, providing another opportunity to reach the community with the gospel. We are thankful for every opportunity to plant the seed of God's Word and pray that the tracts distributed will encourage many to study the Scriptures.
In the evening, we returned to Tuguegarao for our midweek worship service. The elders invited brother Reymund Welba from Tumauini to preach. He delivered an encouraging lesson entitled "Renewed Life in Christ and Abstaining from Sin," reminding the congregation that those who have been made new in Christ are called to live holy lives, turning away from sin and faithfully following God's will.
June 18
We traveled to Aquib, Piat, to conduct another Bible study, this time at the home of the Bautista family. The occasion also marked the second birthday of their daughter, Avielle. The family desired to celebrate this special milestone by gathering with family, friends, and neighbors to hear the preaching of God's Word and to give thanks to Him for His many blessings.
Brother Jerome delivered an encouraging lesson on "Thanksgiving to God," reminding everyone of the importance of cultivating grateful hearts and recognizing that every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord.
June 19
We traveled nearly three hours to Culao, Claveria, to participate in their gospel meeting. Brother Sherwin Miranda invited me to serve as one of the speakers for this special event. We are grateful for the opportunity to encourage the congregation and proclaim the gospel to the community.
I delivered the first lesson entitled "Be Saved Now, Not Later," emphasizing the urgency of responding to God's invitation while there is still time. Brother Jay followed with an encouraging lesson, "No Retirement for a Christian," reminding everyone that faithful service to the Lord continues throughout our lives. Brother Rody concluded the meeting with a lesson on "The True Church of Christ," clearly presenting the biblical identity of the church established by our Lord.
At the conclusion of the meeting, the invitation was extended, and we rejoiced as three precious souls obeyed the gospel. They were baptized in the nearby seashore, providing a beautiful setting to witness their decision to begin a new life in Christ. We give all the glory to God for the success of the meeting and pray that these new Christians will remain faithful as they grow in their walk with the Lord.
June 20
We were once again invited to a birthday celebration, this time here in Tuguegarao. The occasion was the 18th birthday of sister Francia, the granddaughter of brother Lino Darauay. Before the celebration began, we conducted a Bible study, allowing family members, friends, and guests to hear the preaching of God's Word and to give thanks to Him for His abundant blessings.
Sister Francia's life is a remarkable testimony to God's goodness and faithfulness. When she was just one year old, doctors informed her parents that, because of a congenital condition affecting her face and brain, she was expected to live only a few more months. Yet, by God's grace, eighteen years have passed, and she continues to live a joyful life in faithful service to the Lord.
Despite the physical challenges she faces, sister Francia is a faithful and dedicated Christian. She is consistently present at our midweek Bible studies and Sunday worship services in Tuguegarao. Her steadfast commitment serves as an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that physical limitations need not prevent anyone from faithfully worshiping and serving God. Her example encourages every Christian to value every opportunity to assemble with the saints and to remain faithful regardless of life's circumstances.
We are thankful to God for preserving Sister Francia's life and pray that He will continue to bless and strengthen her in the years ahead.
June 21
During our Bible study in Tuguegarao, brother Flor Constantino taught from John 20, continuing our study of the Gospel of John. During the worship service, I had the opportunity to preach a lesson entitled "Things Happy People Do," emphasizing that true and lasting joy is found in living according to God's will and developing Christlike attitudes.
In the afternoon, we traveled to the congregation in Palca, where I also preached the lesson "Be Saved Now, Not Later." We rejoiced that, following the invitation, one precious soul, Faith Divine Santiago, obeyed the gospel and was baptized into Christ. We thank God for her decision and pray that she will continue to grow in faith and remain steadfast in her Christian life.
June 23
We were invited by brother Jayson Tanguilan to Alabug, Tuao, where he celebrated his 40th birthday. Before the celebration, we conducted a Bible study at the home of his mother-in-law. Brother Jayson shared with us that he had been teaching the gospel to his wife's family for many years and had been praying for an opportunity for them to obey the truth.
Brother Efren Respicio delivered the lesson entitled "Do Not Boast About Tomorrow," emphasizing the uncertainty of life and the importance of responding to God's invitation without delay. At the conclusion of the lesson, the invitation was extended, and we rejoiced that brother Jayson's mother-in-law and his aunt decided to obey the gospel.
They were baptized in the nearby river, marking the beginning of their new lives in Christ. We thank God for answering many years of faithful teaching, patience, and prayer. Their obedience serves as a wonderful reminder that the seed of God's Word, when faithfully planted and nurtured, can bear fruit in His perfect time.
June 24
As one of the preachers in the Tuguegarao congregation, I suggested to the elders that we organize a Bible tract distribution throughout the city. After receiving their approval, we announced the activity and invited fellow preachers and brethren from nearby congregations to join us in this evangelistic effort.
We were greatly encouraged by the response. Although I did not keep an exact count, I estimate that nearly thirty brethren participated in the tract distribution. The group photos were taken at different times throughout the day, so we were not able to gather everyone in a single picture, as some brethren arrived later but still took part in the work. We are thankful for the unity, enthusiasm, and willingness of so many brethren to help spread the gospel throughout the community. We pray that the Bible tracts distributed will reach honest hearts and lead many to study God's Word.
In the evening, we gathered once again for our midweek worship service in Tuguegarao. Brother Jay delivered an encouraging lesson entitled "No Retirement for Christians," reminding the congregation that our service to the Lord continues throughout our lives.
June 25
Instead of holding the monthly Bible study during the first week of July, brother Rogelio decided to schedule it on this date at the San Luis congregation. I was invited to preach and shared the lesson entitled "Traits of a Happy Christian." The lesson emphasized that true happiness is found in faithfully following God's will, developing Christian virtues, and maintaining a close relationship with Him.
Attendance was lower than usual because the new school year had just begun. Many of the brethren were unable to attend as they were occupied with school-related responsibilities, particularly in assisting their children with the start of classes. Nevertheless, we were thankful for those who were able to be present, and we pray that the lesson will continue to encourage the congregation to remain joyful and faithful in their service to the Lord.
June 27
We attended the gospel meeting at the Catarauan congregation. Brother Jun Antonio has faithfully served as the local preacher since the congregation was established, and we thank God for his many years (20) of dedicated service to the Lord and to the brethren.
Two guest speakers were invited for the occasion. Brother Jun Bassig delivered a lesson entitled "How to Serve the Lord," encouraging the congregation to remain faithful and wholehearted in their service to God. Brother James Attaban followed with an insightful lesson, "Lessons We Can Learn from the Life of Zimri," emphasizing the importance of obedience and the consequences of turning away from God's will.
As the meeting drew to a close, I expected that Brother Jun would simply ask me to lead a song. However, since there was still time remaining, he invited me to share a brief message. I spoke about the account of Micaiah, emphasizing the importance of standing for the truth regardless of the circumstances or opposition we may face. It was a wonderful opportunity to encourage the brethren to remain faithful and courageous in defending God's truth.
We are thankful for the fellowship we enjoyed with the brethren in Catarauan and pray that the congregation will continue to grow and remain steadfast as they continue the work of the Lord for many years to come.
In the evening, we were invited by Brother Robert Rances to join his family in celebrating the 18th birthday of his granddaughter, KC. Before the celebration, the family gathered to hear the preaching of God's Word and to offer thanks to the Lord for His blessings.
Brother Jerome Forelo delivered an encouraging lesson on "Giving Thanks," reminding everyone of the importance of living with grateful hearts and recognizing God's goodness in every stage of life. I was also asked to lead the congregation in prayer, giving thanks to God for His many blessings and asking for His continued guidance and protection over KC as she begins this new chapter of her life.
We are thankful for families who choose to honor God during life's special occasions by placing His Word and prayer at the center of their celebrations.
June 28
During our Bible study in Tuguegarao, brother Rody concluded our study of the Gospel of John by presenting a summary of the entire book, highlighting its major themes and lessons about the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Before the worship service began, I had already traveled to Palca because we needed to adjust our afternoon schedule. On the last Sunday of each month, both the Palca and Dagupan congregations normally meet at 12:00 noon. However, since brother Robert was unable to accompany me that day, it was not possible for me to be in both places at the same time. After discussing the matter, we decided to move the worship service in Palca to 10:30 a.m., while keeping the Dagupan service at 12:00 noon. I am thankful that brother Jhian was able to accompany me and assist with the work.
At the Palca congregation, I preached the lesson "Things Happy People Do." At the conclusion of the lesson, the invitation was extended, and we rejoiced as another precious soul, Rosabelle Dulat, obeyed the gospel and was baptized into Christ. She had been attending our services and Bible studies for nearly a month, and we are grateful that she made the decision to become a Christian. We pray that she will continue to grow in her faith and remain steadfast in her walk with the Lord.
When we arrived in Dagupan, I was scheduled to preach once again. However, during the latter part of my sermon in Palca, I began to lose my voice and developed a persistent cough, making it difficult for me to continue speaking. Because of this, I asked brother Jhian to preach in my place. He delivered an excellent lesson on the Parable of the Lost Sheep, reminding the congregation of God's great love for the lost and His desire for every soul to return to Him. I am thankful for Brother Jhian's willingness to step in and faithfully proclaim God's Word when the need arose.
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