31/03/2026
We are formally documenting the current situation regarding the access to essential goods at the church premises. Measures implemented at the front gate have effectively blocked the delivery of food and basic necessities to all individuals inside, including minors. We emphasize that such restrictions may constitute a violation of basic human rights and the universal right to food and welfare, posing a direct threat to the health and safety of those currently within the premises.
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We categorically refute the unfounded allegations linking Rev. Jerusa T. Semacio and Rev. Marjun G. Miguel to the New Peopleโs Army (NPA).
There are no pending criminal charges, warrants of arrest, or official findings by any local or national authority to support these claims.
The practice of "red-tagging" is a documented form of harassment that lacks evidentiary basis. We maintain that such accusations against UCCP Pastors are defamatory and present a grave risk to their personal safety and professional reputation.
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On July 15, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) issued a formal directive ordering the entity registered as "UCCP Butuan Evangelical Church Inc." to amend its corporate name by removing the designation "UCCP."
DENIAL OF RECONSIDERATION (SEC-CDEO NO. 2024-07-001) In a subsequent order dated February 3, 2026, the SEC OFFICIALLY DENIED the entityโs Motion for Reconsideration. The Commission reaffirmed its previous decision, citing that the unauthorized use of "UCCP" in the entityโs title constitutes a direct violation of the Revised Corporation Code of the Philippines.
Pursuant to the February 3, 2026 Order, the mandate to drop "UCCP" from the corporate name is FINAL AND EXECUTORY. Continued use of the name in official capacity, signage, or documentation remains in contravention of SEC regulations and the Revised Corporation Code.
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The entity "UCCP Butuan Evangelical Church Inc." is not recognized as an official local church or constituent of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP).
Under Article IX, Section 5 of the UCCP Constitution and By-Laws, no local church or body may incorporate without the express prior approval of the General Assembly or its National Council.
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The UCCP Butuan firmly denies any allegation suggesting an intention to burn or cause harm to its place of worship. Such claims are based on a serious misunderstanding of the churchโs principles, mission, and ongoing actions.
UCCP Butuan has consistently exercised maximum tolerance and restraint, even in the face of tension and provocation. At all times, the Council has acted in good faith and within the bounds of the law. All actions and decisions undertaken by the Council are pursued through proper legal channels, with the primary aim of protecting the church, safeguarding its members, and upholding the values and faith that UCCP teaches.
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We urge all involved parties to cease acts of intimidation and to resolve any disputes strictly through proper legal and judicial channels. We call for the respect of the rule of law and the immediate cessation of actions that bypass the legal system or infringe upon the safety of the UCCP membership and the surrounding community.
