A total of 66 individuals accepted Jesus Christ through baptism following the recent Indigenous Mission Group (IMG) outreach in the Zambales mountains. The IMG Thanksgiving Vesper Service, held on July 4, 2025, at the Philippine International Church, celebrated this milestone, emphasizing the mission’s impact and the group’s ongoing commitment to service, obedience, and faith.

This recent outreach to the indigenous communities in Zambales brought together 25 undergraduate students, 14 medical students, 12 new alumni, 4 faculty and staff, and 6 non-AUP volunteers. Despite heavy rains, travel challenges, and financial uncertainties, the mission team remained steadfast, fueled by a commitment to serve by faith.

“The moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we have a task to do,” shared Bro. Conrad Lo, IMG adviser. “That task is to make disciples. Our ministry does not end with baptism; it must continue through discipleship.”

The group shared testimonies of how the mission not only shaped the lives of those in the mountains but also their own personal walk with God.

Bro. Josephat Labosta, a theology student, reflected on the mission as a redirection to his calling: “God continues to use young people to share His plan of redemption, even to the most remote places. That is why I serve, because I love His Word, I love His church, and I love God.”

Some stories highlighted the emotional and relational impact of the trip. Bro. Moises Olarte, an academy faculty member, recalled how they helped rebuild not just shelters, but also family ties. After sensing tension between a father and son, he encouraged them to have a conversation. That simple nudge led to the father and son reconnecting. “We’re not just there to preach. We’re there to build relationships that heal,” he shared. He also shared how the locals used donated Bibles not just for devotion, but as literacy tools, learning to read by reading God’s Word.

Sis. Trisha Dadula emphasized the power of compassion. She spoke with a young girl who wanted to pursue her education but felt discouraged due to discrimination. “Love is a universal language,” she reflected. “This mission taught me to see others with compassion.”

Despite warnings about hostility in certain areas, Sis. Camille Olivar, assigned to the farthest village, testified about the kindness they received. Locals who had long felt isolated due to prejudice welcomed the missionaries warmly, even building them a shelter. “It was their first time to feel seen and valued,” Camille said. Her passion for returning to mission service was rekindled after learning that a baby from a previous mission area had passed away due to preventable illness. “God made a way for me to return,” she shared.

Rooted in the core value of exemplary service, the Indigenous Mission Group remains a platform for young missionaries to embody Christ’s example, serving with compassion, conviction, and courage.

As 66 individuals publicly committed their lives to Christ, the missionaries testified that they, too, were transformed. Not by their own strength, but by God’s. “Mission doesn’t begin when you arrive on site,” one volunteer shared. “It begins the moment you say, ‘Yes, Lord. Send me.’”