The Berean Bible Institute in Isio, Cauayan marked its 68th founding anniversary on Thursday, Nov. 5 — a milestones day of fellowship, recollection, and a renewed commitment to the growth of church ministry.
This school has always held a special place in my heart. I grew up in its environment, watching my parents and their church associates establish it back in 1958.
Originally named the Associated Bible Institute, it was founded with a singular, noble purpose: to provide faithful workers for the Lord’s vineyard in southern Negros and across the country. It was later transferred to its current site at Purok 3, behind Isio Baptist Church.
To date, it has fulfilled that vision meaningfully, equipping more than 1,000 men and women who are now scattered in rural communities and across the Philippines, building and sustaining evangelical churches.
This year’s celebration focused on the theme, “Planted by Faith, Growing by Grace, Bearing Fruits for God’s Glory,” anchored on Psalm 92:12-14.
The anniversary activities, highlighted by a moving worship service, were hosted by the Shalom Baptist Church in Barangay Tuyom.
The alumni and guests were privileged to have Pastor Rene Tanjusay of the New Tribes Mission of the Philippines Inc. as guest speaker. NTMPI, based in Cainta, Rizal, is a non-denominational Christian mission organization of over 100 Filipino missionaries.
Pastor Tanjusay is a BBI alumnus.
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In his message, Pastor Tanjusay called on his fellow church workers to carry on the faith of the school’s founders. “They did not have the support, but they never gave up,” he said.
He challenged then to continue fulfilling the work that God has given, adding, “because it is His grace that sustains us.”
Likening the ministry to a palm tree, Pastor Tanjusay called on his fellow church ministers to remain steadfast and to continue bearing fruit, regardless of how long they have been in God’s service.
“Bear fruits — fruits that will last to glorify our Father — and be strong and resilient,” he urged.
As he reflected on his 55 years in God’s ministry, he shared his journey with the hope that it would inspire fellow graduates to persevere and be fruitful.
Reiterating the need to honor the efforts of the founders, he concluded, “Because of what they started, God is where He is now — in the hearts of many.”
The commemorative program brought together church leaders, school and local officials, including Cauayan Mayor John Rey Tabujara and Tuyom Barangay Captain Jose Gayle Lapore.
BBI’s leadership was present to mark the milestone, led by Institute Director Pastor Geovanie Estoya, Board Chairman Pastor Ric Lauron, Board Secretary Lynn Tanjusay, and Treasurer Dr. Erika Arboleda.
Board members Dr. Russel Atonson, Dr. Alma Arboleda, Dr. Sarah Galang, Pastor Tim Gatuteo, and Pastor Melandro Baga-ut were also in attendance.
During the program, faculty member Glenda Atonson shared a moving narration of the school’s history. Also joining the celebration were fellow teacher Pastor Manuel Tanjusay, Pastors Vince Nemenzo and Jun Cordova, Althea Estoya, wife of the BBI director and former Institute Director Felina Gempison.
The event was organized by the alumni association, led by its president, Pastor William Colimbo, who also serves as the pastor of the host church. The association’s leadership includes Beulah Ariston (secretary), Pastor Melandro Baga-ut (treasurer), and board members Pastor Gatuteo, Pastor Godufredo Burgos, and Pastor Jose Estoya Jr.
As BBI heads toward it’s seventh decade, we join together in prayer that the institute will continue to grow in the spirit of Matthew 28:18-20, faithfully sending out disciples to bring God’s Word to rural communities and beyond.
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Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. (2 Timothy 3:15) | NWI
