40 Inmate Pastor: Mario E. Lazaga Jr

190 the word of God to the lost souls back to God and give my full faith and trust nobody but to God though His only Son JESU CHRIST. Glory to God, God still shows love to me and on His plan, I will be out of this jail to mightily preach His word, devoting my time and effort for God’s glory instead of men.

Regards Marcial.

Witnessed by: Michael John Clarke. 40 Inmate Pastor: Mario E. Lazaga Jr.

Name: Mario E. Lazaga Jr.

Age: DOB: 49 yrs.

Prison Number: 140217-P

Crime: Double murder

Sentence: Double Life Year detained: August 1983 Served: Previous Occupation: Former Soldier Status: Single

Family address: Brgy, Aplaya, Sta. Road.

Dear Reader,

Before I was saved I was enslaved by many vices, such as lust, gambling and heavy drinking. I can still remember maltreating some of my companions when I was drunk, especially after I became a soldier (Philippine Constabulary). I was only 21 years old at that time. When I became a soldier I was one of many that were victimised by false worship. I worshipped idols

191 and depended on my amulets (anting – anting) – believing that these things had the power to save me from bullets and death. Although I was totally controlled by these things, I thought I was secure.

On 21st August 1983, I was one of the suspects in the double murder case of ex-senators Benigno Aquino and Rolando Galman. During the time of President Ferdinand Marcos, we were all acquitted by the Sandigan Bayan, (special Court) on December 2nd 1985

Unfortunately, when ex-president Cory Aquino became the President of the Philippines, she re-opened our case. This time all my companions and I were convicted by the Court and I was sentenced to ‘Double Life Imprisonment’.

I am honestly innocent of this crime. That is why, during our promulgation, I felt a negative reaction because God had allowed these things to happen to me. I was filled with bitterness and anger towards all the false witnesses.

On June 10th, 1990, we were brought to the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City A few months later I was persuaded to attend a Christian Fellowship meeting near our dormitory. The meeting was led by Bro. Jose Villanueva. When I heard the Word of God that he preached that day, I decided to surrender my life to the Lord. During the Alter Call I repented, confessed my sins, and humbly received Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. After saying the sinner’s prayer I was assured by the Holy Spirit that all my sins were forgiven. From that day, God changed my life.

I began to read the Scriptures, and slowly a deep understanding came about which I had never known before. Example: ‘ the eternal security of the believer’, ‘the Deity of Christ’. These things led me to enrol at the NBP Theological Institute in 1991. By God’s grace I was able to finish 3 Courses upto 1999.

I am a former soldier, but now I realise that God made me a ‘fisher of men’ and my aim now is to win many souls for the Lord.

To God be the Glory!!

I pray that you too will be saved.

Signed: Bro. Mario E . Lazaga

Witnessed by: Pastor Andy Dolin (Associate pastor, NBPTI)