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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\u2019s impact and the group\u2019s ongoing commitment to service, obedience, and faith.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe moment we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we have a task to do,\u201d shared Bro. Conrad Lo, IMG adviser. \u201cThat task is to make disciples. Our ministry does not end with baptism; it must continue through discipleship.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Bro. Josephat Labosta, a theology student, reflected on the mission as a redirection to his calling: \u201cGod 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.\u201d<\/p>\n
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. \u201cWe\u2019re not just there to preach. We\u2019re there to build relationships that heal,\u201d 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\u2019s Word.<\/p>\n
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. \u201cLove is a universal language,\u201d she reflected. \u201cThis mission taught me to see others with compassion.\u201d<\/p>\n
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. \u201cIt was their first time to feel seen and valued,\u201d 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. \u201cGod made a way for me to return,\u201d she shared.<\/p>\n
Rooted in the core value of exemplary service, the Indigenous Mission Group remains a platform for young missionaries to embody Christ\u2019s example, serving with compassion, conviction, and courage.<\/p>\n
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\u2019s. \u201cMission doesn\u2019t begin when you arrive on site,\u201d one volunteer shared. \u201cIt begins the moment you say, \u2018Yes, Lord. Send me.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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