On December 14, 2025, the Ecclesiastical District of New York hosted a SCAN Appreciation Day. SCAN stands for the Society of Communicators and Networkers International, an organization within the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) that aims to provide communication and information assistance, thereby help save people’s lives, via emergency response and rescue operations during disasters and the like.
With the house of worship of the Local Congregation of Forest Hills serving as the host venue, the said event was simultaneously held at the houses of worship of the Local Congregations of Bristol, Connecticut and Rochester, New York for those in New England and Upstate New York, respectively.
District supervising minister Brother Sheridohn R. Santos led the activity. In his opening remarks, he commended SCAN’s selfless efforts in keeping every venue safe and available for the brethren as they enjoy the activities supported by the Church Administration. Then, he read the letter from the Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo.
In his letter, the Executive Minister likewise recognized the SCAN members’ efforts. Honoring them by means of this activity, Brother Eduardo Manalo said his hopes that the officers remain inspired and active in fulfilling their Church duties, ever diligent in putting the brethren’s welfare first. Their labors are not in vain, he reminded them, for God will continue blessing them. “It was very heartfelt. I’m sure it touched everyone who heard our brother’s letter,” said SCAN officer Thomas Zafarresse.
Afterwards, the SCAN officers watched the CEBSI Film “Rescue,” which highlights SCAN’s life-saving skills in times of calamity, among other emergencies. A dinner was likewise prepared for the SCAN members, which they enjoyed and paved the way for them to strengthen their bond.
On behalf of all the officers in attendance, district SCAN president Ferdinand Aguinaldo Jr. said in an interview, “There are difficulties, there are hardships. But when we heard that letter, we’re all the more inspired to fulfill our divine duty.”