by Jeruel B. Ibañez

The Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) formally held the Foundation Laying Ceremony for the first phase of its upcoming Medical Center in Puting Kahoy, Silang, Cavite, on May 14, 2026. The event gathered administrators, faculty, staff, construction partners, and members of the faith community in a solemn yet hope-filled dedication service.

Dr. Arceli Rosario, AUP President, shared inspiring words of faith and dependence on God, recalling that the University may not be skilled in solicitation, but continues to believe in the power of prayer and divine providence. She expressed her prayer that God would touch hearts and send donors willing to support the mission of the AUP-Medical Center. In a remarkable testimony of answered prayer, a donor recently pledged ₱1 million, payable within one year, to help advance the construction of the project.

Pastor Lani Esteves, Philippine International Church (PIC) senior pastor, delivered a message centered on biblical builders—contrasting those who built monuments for their own names with those who built for the glory of the Lord God Almighty. He reminded attendees that true and lasting foundations are established not for human recognition, but for God’s mission and service.

Meanwhile, Pastor Gerardo Cajobe, Board of Trustees chairman, shared stories of previous building projects where donors responded generously following earnest prayer, united promotion, and collective faith. His testimony encouraged the audience to trust that God would likewise provide for the AUP-Medical Center in His perfect time.

The University also recognized the vital role of TRASS Construction Company, Inc., the firm spearheading the project’s development and groundwork. Representing the labor, expertise, and engineering efforts behind the construction, the company joined the ceremony in committing to uphold excellence, integrity, and safety as the AUP-Medical Center rises from vision to reality.

As construction begins on the site, University leaders, together with participants in the dedication ceremony, expressed high hope and fervent faith that the future AUP-Medical Center will become a beacon of compassionate healthcare, Adventist education, and mission-driven excellence in the Philippines. Through songs, prayers, and a litany of commitment, the project was formally dedicated to God’s service as a ministry of healing and hope for future generations.