In a remarkable initiative, various government agencies in Ormoc City, Leyte, Philippines, united for ongoing professional and spiritual enrichment. Spearheaded by Pastor Ricardo De Asis Jr. of the Ormoc City Seventh-day Adventist Church, the program aimed to promote camaraderie and well-being while focusing on personal growth and spiritual development.
Participants included members from the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), PCG Auxiliary, Maritime Police, Ormoc City Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and the Department of Health. Explicit directives from department heads encouraged attendance at this unique blend of 14 doctrinal discussions and professional development workshops, distinguishing it from typical training programs.
De Asis acted not only as a facilitator but as a life and spiritual health coach, emphasizing the significance of building personal connections among participants. He noted, “By extending my services to them and connecting where trust and confidence grow, I could engage in discussions and Bible studies whenever needed.”
The program consisted of multiple sessions, ensuring each involved only ten personnel from various agencies so as not to overwhelm anyone. De Asis described this as an ongoing commitment rather than a fleeting event, addressing both personal and professional development needs.
Significantly, the initiative also included Philippine Army personnel and was structured with flexibility to accommodate their demanding schedules. De Asis mentioned, “The flexibility accommodated their busy commitments,” making it accessible for all involved.
Spiritual development was a central theme of the initiative. De Asis articulated a vision where “baptisms will follow when we served our purpose to let them feel the need for a Savior.” This goal was precise and intentional, focusing on nurturing spiritual journeys. During a session, De Asis highlighted the suffering of Christ, leading to an emotional response from attendees. He shared, “The appeal was powerful when most of them cried, delving deeper into the pain and shame Christ endured.”
Attendee Lallaine P. Dacallos, a Coast Guard employee, expressed appreciation for the seminar, stating, “I learned a lot from what you shared with us. What impressed me the most was the reminder not to forget God because He hasn’t forgotten us.” Her sentiments echoed the broader success of the initiative in fostering spiritual awareness.
Government officials praised the program, acknowledging De Asis’s dedication. An official from the Coast Guard highlighted his importance to the organization, noting his willingness to invest time in sharing knowledge. Samuel Salloman, president of the Eastern Visayas Conference of the Adventist Church, commended De Asis’s ministry approach, which prioritized building professional friendships and deeper connections rather than merely promoting church interests.
Maritime Police station commander Ibnohasan R. Amilasan Jr. found the program—dubbed “Call of Duty” season 2—timely for law enforcement officers, underscoring its significance in making them more God-centered and God-fearing.
The initiative also showcased the active engagement of Adventists in Ormoc City, who participated enthusiastically in singing and prayer, reflecting their commitment to making a positive impact in their community. Organizers noted that this spiritual preparation aligns with their belief in the imminent return of Christ.
Overall, the program exemplifies a holistic approach to personal and spiritual enrichment, fostering strong relationships and fulfilling the dual mission of professional and spiritual growth within the community.
