19/03/2026
Ilog SDA Church Marks 104 Years of Ministry in Negros Occidental
By: Stephanie Loriezo
ILOG, Philippines— The Ilog Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrates its 104th anniversary, honoring more than a century of history.
The anniversary, held at Ilog SDA Church and attended by the whole district, comprising 12 churches, and with the presence of the present administrators of the West Central Philippine Union Mission and Negros Occidental Conference.
The anniversary celebration took place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Ilog SDA school covered court.
At the event, themed “104 years of God’s faithfulness: Continuing the Mission Until Jesus Comes,” Pastor Heber Bacolod, executive secretary of the Negros Occidental Conference, reminded attendees that their mission is a divine calling. Citing the book "The Desire of Ages," Bacolod said, “Every true disciple is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary.”
As the keynote speaker, Pastor Calev Maquirang, executive secretary of the West Central Philippines Union Mission, emphasized the pattern of light of the SDA church. He illustrated the story of Ehud in the book of Judges 3:15, which serves as an inspiration and encouragement that God can use anyone’s unique skills, even in their flaws.
“Let us not be discouraged. God is a God who answers prayers. Don’t stop praying. God can turn yesterday into today’s inspiration. Because God is the God of history. He is faithful, ”Maquirang concluded in his message.
The History
The church traces its roots to 1921, when the "Three Angels’ Messages" were first heard in Jaro, Iloilo. The message reached the village of Komon in Ilog through Paz Guevarra, a young woman who shared her faith with local residents.
The good news of salvation was spread, and the first Sabbath School was then organized through the effort of the faithful church members. Through the working of the Holy Spirit, the first baptism took place on March 14, 1922, by Elder Hugh Murrin, director of the West Visayan Mission.
In 1927, the gospel continued. Through revival meetings, the church grew in number.
In 1976, Pastor Salvador Miraflores led a meeting with all the SDA members in Ilog to plan for a church in the municipality.
Through fervent prayers, Antonio de Asis, one of the church development campaign managers, donated land for the project. Funds for the building were gathered through various campaigns and solicitations.
On January 9, 1980, a groundbreaking ceremony was conducted, and the house of God was dedicated on Dec 20, 1980.
This year, the Ilog Seventh-Day Adventist church celebrates its 104th year of faithfulness and gratitude for God’s blessings, marking a milestone of faith and sacrifice.
“I learned about God and was converted in this faith because of the faithfulness of the church members of the Ilog SDA Church. I’m glad I’m a member of this church,” one of the church members shared as the celebration brought her back a sense of nostalgia.
As the Ilog Seventh-day Adventist Church enters its 105th year, leadership plans to expand its church, community outreach, and educational programs. The anniversary serves as a bridge between the pioneering efforts of 1921 and the church's modern role as a spiritual pillar in Negros Occidental.
