Get-together highlights Batangas City Congregation’s 90th anniversary

By SANRIO GARCIA and MARK ANDRO MILAN

Date Posted: February 8, 2026

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Nine decades have passed, but the Local Congregation of Batangas City in the Ecclesiastical District of Batangas, Philippines, proved strong through the test of time. Celebrating its milestone, Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) members there attended a musical program dubbed “Batangas City 90th Anniversary Get Together” at Batangas City Sports Coliseum on January 25, 2026.

The day’s program started with a prayer by resident ministerial worker Brother John Serafin Mendoza, then the opening remarks by district Christian Family Organizations overseer Brother Linnoel Ignacio. With the district music team and Keen Yra Evangelista’s rendition of INC original music Still Blessed by God on the lead, it was followed by all other performances featuring INC original music, such as God’s Promise, Tunay na Kaligayahan (True Happiness), Ang Banal na Tungkulin ay Biyaya (The Holy Duty is God’s Gift), Sa Pag-asa Laban Sa Pag-asa (Hope Against Hope), and O Diyos, Kami ay Magagalak (O Father, We Will Rejoice).

Overall, there were a total of eight choral performances, during which a video presentation was shown, featuring photographs of brethren as they actively participate in various endeavors of the congregation through the years.

Being in Batangas for more than 30 years now, “I saw how our congregation progressed in its various endeavors, such as in the propagation of God’s words, and recruitment of more officers,” said the congregation’s choir leader Regie Tan. “It feels fulfilling that aside from the officers who performed today were the doctrinal instructees and prospective members, just like what we did even in previous years.”

Being able to talk with older brethren, finance officer Christine Rillo de Torres said that she was “inspired how the pioneering members would wake up early, among other sacrifices, just to be able to reach on time the house of worship. Now that accessibility is better, truly there isn’t a reason for a Church member to be hindered from attending worship services.”

“Seeing the brethren’s activeness in the faith delights me. For me, it’s a proof of God’s mercy, that He keeps us safe,” said choir member Kezdreol Ian Maghirang.

On behalf of district supervising minister Brother Pedro F. Castillo, district assistant supervising minister Brother Felman Reyes graced the event with his presence. He gave the closing remarks, wherein he commended everyone in attendance, especially the performers for their efforts. Afterwards, resident minister Brother Arjay Alegria led a heartfelt prayer of thank and praise to God.

This joyous event “also served as an opportune time to teach the brethren how God helped and upheld us through the years,” said Brother Alegria. On behalf of the officers, he added, “We will continue doing so—teaching the younger brethren to always remember that the congregation’s past and future successes come from God. That way, they will remain strong in the faith, ever active in serving God.” – With assistance from Elton Diaz