19/04/2026
Antipolo Philippines Stake Relief Society Hosts History Fair Highlighting Growth Of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Philippines
ANTIPOLO CITY, Philippines — The Antipolo Philippines Stake Relief Society hosted a stakewide activity focused on preserving and celebrating the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Philippines, with particular emphasis on the Antipolo Philippines Stake.
The event brought together members, leaders and pioneers in a unified effort to reflect on the beginnings and growth of the Church in the area. The activity centered on strengthening faith and helping members understand their place in the continuing story of the Church.
The history of the Church in Antipolo dates back to the 1980s, when missionaries and early members met in homes and small gatherings. These efforts led to steady growth and eventually to the organization of the Antipolo Philippines Stake in 1997, with Arnulfo Roda serving as its first stake president.
As membership increased, the stake expanded and later contributed to the creation of additional stakes, including the Marikina East Philippines Stake. Today, the Antipolo Philippines Stake includes Antipolo 1st Ward, Antipolo 2nd Ward, Masagana 1st Ward, Masagana 2nd Ward, San Isidro 1st Ward and San Isidro 2nd Ward.
The activity was conducted under the direction of the stake presidency, led by President Gregorio Villalon, with President Michael Jacob, first counselor, and President Stephen Raflores, second counselor.
The stake Relief Society presidency organized the event, led by President Anita Baluyot, with Sister Morena Baylon as first counselor, Sister Ana Marie Somoray as second counselor, and Sister Justine Rose Angolluan as secretary.
President Michael Jacob provided opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of remembering the beginnings of the Church and recognizing the Lord’s hand in its growth.
A recorded message from Arnulfo Roda shared reflections on the early years of the stake and the faith of its members. Patriarch Alfredo Ardon, a former stake president, spoke on the continuity of faith across generations and the responsibility of members to build on the foundation established by pioneers.
An interactive history fair followed, featuring displays of early missionary materials, photographs, and personal records. Members participated in activities such as mapping their personal Church history and contributing to a stake timeline documenting key milestones and individual faith journeys. A time capsule initiative invited members to write messages and share recorded experiences for future generations.
Toward the conclusion of the program, testimonies were shared by stake pioneers Sister Dory Tarrobago and Sister Esther Besana, who recounted their experiences during the early years of the Church in Antipolo. Sister Miriam Estravila, a newer member, also shared her testimony, reflecting the continued growth of the Church and the influence of faith in her life.
President Gregorio Villalon concluded the activity with closing remarks, encouraging members to remember the sacrifices of early Saints and to continue strengthening the Church in their respective areas.
The event highlighted both the history and the continuing growth of the Church in the Antipolo Philippines Stake, reinforcing a shared sense of identity and purpose among its members.
