Reflector 2022

SCHOOL DEANS

EDITORIAL BOARD

Editor-in-Chief: Mary Ann Abriol

Associate Editors:

News Editor:

Feature Editor:

Opinion Editor:

Literary Editor:

Layout Editor:

Beat Reporters:

Literary Adviser: Editor Consultant:

MISSION

Merwin F. Dela Cruz

Brian Ledda

John Lester R. Diamsay

Glenn D. Villegas

John Mark Q. Yago

Charlymagne A. Canoy

Edison C. Aceberos Jr.

Jodi Kate S. Dela Cruz

Mark J-xy C. Dela Torre

Jizelle Kate D. Tadeo

Jacquiline P. Mendoza

Lowel J. Domocmat

NLAC AERIAL VIEW

Our cover features the aerial view of about 60 feet high and which features the metamorphosis of NLAC from a church school, a junior middle school, an academy, and into a college. See cover story on pages 28 & 29.

Northern Luzon Adventist College exists to nurture students in the Christian way of life and to prepare them to become servant-leaders who are competent, committed, and consecrated to the service of God and humanity

VISION

The school that provides balanced and holistic development of human life resulting in the transformation of character responsive to the global and changing needs of families.

APOLOGY

The Reflector staff as a whole has tried the best and has exerted much effort to make their first issue of the school paper error free and accurate as possible. Yet as human tendencies of commiting mistakes either in printing or omission of news including syntax or semantic fault, a sincere apology is heartily expressed. It is not the intention of the entire staff whatsoever to draw to offend anyone, or to claim perfection.

“To Err is Human but to Forgive is Divine.”

STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENT MINISTERIAL ASSOCIATION PRESIDENT

WHAT IF? KEEP STRIVING

by Alondra Aldrianne G. Sildo

My warmest and sincerest greetings to all! As I take a humble portion of this page, I’d like to ask something. What is your biggest “WHAT IF?” Have you ever tried to look into the future of your dreams but with skeptic thoughts? Isaiah 60:22 tells us, “When the time is right, I, the Lord will make it happen.” These very words of the Lord spoke to me and only made sense to me when he called me for a whole new purpose—to serve as the Student Council President of Northern Luzon Adventist College.

When I was a sophomore, I was asked to run for SC secretary and was disqualified during the elections. In my junior year, I ran again as SC P.I.O. and still didn’t win, but that’s all right. In my mind, maybe I wasn’t really meant to be a part of the Student Council. But then again, there’s this small voice telling me to try again. “This time, you will see the wisdom of my timing.” As an incoming senior student, I pulled out my last straw, ran for the presidency, and is humbled for having won the position. And again, that small voice said, “When the time is right I the Lord will make it happen.” You see, God always has something bigger than our plans. You may not see it now but know that He is taking you there. Allow Him to navigate your ship, I tell you, you’ll get there.

Our dear College celebrates its 100th Founding Anniversary and we are all in bliss for it. If it weren’t for God, it wouldn’t reach this far and this Centennial Celebrations wouldn’t be possible. Dearest readers, the future can be too exciting and uncertain, but without the refiner’s fire, you wouldn’t experience God’s ultimate plan for you. God allowed me to lose so when the time is right, my heart is already humbled enough to receive His best plan for me—to serve NLAC as the Student Council president. I am beyond thankful for the trust and support! May God’s blessings be upon us all!

To God be all the glory! Shalom!

by Jesse Noel Bruan Catungal

In March of 2020 and with the rise of the COVID-19 disease that was spreading throughout the entire world, including the Philippines that frightened many NLACians, former vice president for Student Services, Dr. Arnulfo Castillo announced that classes were suspended for two weeks. Shortly, it brought joy to many students and faculty members to the fact that they wanted to go home and spend quality time with their family. But little did they know that the class suspension turned into couple of weeks to months, and eventually to two solid school years from 20202022.

Life during the Coronavirus Pandemic era had been very difficult for many NLACians, students and faculty alike, but with the power of prayer, not only it motivated people to keep moving forward despite of the circumstances but it gave hope to everyone that we the people of Northern Luzon Adventist College could overcome these obstacles not only in the academic struggles, but all other kinds of struggles mentally, physically and spiritually. Praise God that this college survived the pandemic and would continue to strive through God’s amazing grace especially the coming Centennial Foundation anniversary this 2023. To God be the glory! Amen.

THE FUTURE CAN BE TOO EXCITING AND UNCERTAIN, BUT WITHOUT THE REFINER’S FIRE, YOU WOULDN’T EXPERIENCE GOD’S ULTIMATE PLAN FOR YOU.

“ “

Quality Adventist Christian Education Continue to Thrive in the Global Pandemic and Beyond: 100 Years of Proclaiming God’s Grace and Goodness

What makes education of quality standard? Is it the offering of high technology and superior courses like architecture, computer engineering, information technology, law medicine, and the like? Or the provision of complete physical facilities like air-conditioned classrooms and laboratories, digitalized library catalogue system, highly technological audio-visual rooms, and qualified faculty members who are master’s or doctorate degree holders so they are said to be effective, efficient, and competent mentors, instructors, and professors?

Certainly, NLAC isn’t behind as well in the offering of quality standard education with the criteria mentioned above. For even in the past two years of global pandemic in March 2020 that restricted conducting the face-to-face classes, NLAC didn’t halt to offer Adventist quality Christian education to pupils and students from kindergarten to the graduate studies of the college, unlike other schools nearby the vicinity that eventually stopped its program operation during the pandemic years. In fact, NLAC has its personally owned Learning Management System (LMS) to carry across for two consecutive years adopting the modality of flexible learning for blended virtual, modular, distance learning, and homeschooling. That even in this school year 2022-2023 is still integrating the use of the LMS as part of the students’ learning tool aside from the gradually getting back face-to-face classes this post pandemic New Normal era in education.

Ever since, NLA/NLAC offers standard quality Adventist Christian education in ideal and harmonious development of the physical, intellectual/mental, social/emotional, and most especially the spiritual aspect of pupils and students who come and go through

the portals of this Christian institution. The former Artacho Church School in 1923 had its humble beginning even as it turned into Ilocos Junior Middle School in 1926, transformed into Northern Luzon Academy in 1931, and eventually as a senior college as Northern Luzon Adventist College in 1992. Yet the quality Christian standard of Adventist education this institution offers never changed through the years even amidst this 21st Century global pandemic and beyond as it continues to proclaim God’s grace and goodness in reaching its Centennial anniversary celebrations in 2023.

For its mission is to educate learners in the Christian way of life to become servant-leaders who are competent, committed, and consecrated to the services of God and humanity. And its vision is to provide balanced and holistic development of human life resulting into transformation of character responsive to the global and changing needs of families and societies. Thus, to be the centre of quality Adventist Christian education responsive to global needs.

Let us then get UNITED as one school family in the realization of the college vision and mission in the spread and fulfilment of the “Great Commission” as stated in Matthew 28:19-20, hence and BEYOND acknowledging God’s grace and goodness in reaching the Centennial anniversary celebrations in 2023.

Shaken

FORSAKEN

by John Lester Diamsay, ABTheo I

ANorthern Luzon Adventist College student recently stated that 2020 was the most difficult year for him; perhaps many of us would agree because unpleasant events such as wildfires, plagues, earthquakes, bombings, and the COVID-19 global pandemic occurred at the start of the year. The pandemic caused huge disruptions to normal life; businesses were laid off, millions of lives were lost, and even the schools were closed.

Difficulties

The global pandemic has given a great test to NLAC and caused fear among all students, teachers, and employees. Many plans were broken, good school programs were reduced, and many sad things changed because of the pandemic. However, because change is an unavoidable experience for people and institutions, NLAC accepted the change that leads to development.

The Bible tells the story of the Israelites, who went through such difficult and painful experiences that it may have been difficult for them to recognize that their God was working for their salvation. The book of Deuteronomy reminds us that there is a God who is faithful, and because He is faithful, no matter what challenges and trials we face, He remains faithful. There will be difficult times in our lives, but God promises to be our refuge; God has never failed us when our world has been shaken. God will sometimes allow us to go through trials in order for us to get to know Him better.

When difficulties arise, we frequently believe that God has abandoned us. When we are facing difficulties, God’s presence may appear to be very far away from us; we may also feel abandoned by God. He is, however, always with us (Immanuel). We recognize that God is at work, but we do not agree with what He is doing. When we are hurt and humiliated, it is easy to blame God for being cruel, not intervening, or not caring. But keep in mind that God is always working to help us fully seek, trust, and know Him. We know that the NLAC is a school whose goal is to introduce our Lord Jesus Christ and prepare each of us for His return. So we see the Lord’s vigilance in this school.

God’s Promise

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 global pandemic, Northern Luzon Adventist College was able to continue its mission of preparing students

“Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and Keep His commandments.

Deuteronomy 7:9

for life through virtual classes in variousmodalities such as blended learning, modular learning, homeschooling, and distance learning, among others. This was due to their (NLAC) reliance on God’s promise in Psalms 91:11. “For He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” And they regard it as a sign of the times, a sign that Jesus will soon return. In times of adversity, we should remember that these situations are allowed to come to us to be against us because they are for us, for our growth lessons, learning, and experience. Indeed, the Lord is so gracious towards NLAC’s challenges and problems, and there is a God who remains vigilant and loving. Donors and sponsors have blessed NLAC for school development. At God’s mercy, the school is gradually returning to normal, with face-to-face classes being restored.

God’s Reminder

God gave us reminders in Deuteronomy 7:9: Therefore know that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and mercy for a thousand generations with those who love Him and Keep His commandments. NLAC aims to fulfill the “great commission” that Jesus Christ has given to the school that prepares people for the Lord Jesus’ return. One hundred years since its humble beginning as a Church School in 1923 up to now as a college, NLAC has matured through the crucibles of leadership and management with the guidance of divine providence.

We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history. Life Sketches, p. 196.

John Lester R. Diamsay is freshman theology student and is also news editor of the Reflector. He hails from Rosales, Pangasinan

but not

Reaches 1,478

by Mary Ann Abriol, BSEd III English

Northern Luzon Adventist College according to the registrar’s offices from elementary to college has reached a total enrolment population of 1,478 which is a combination of new, former, transferee, and some foreigner students from basic education (K-12) to graduate school for the school year 2022-2023, two years after the global pandemic.

And for the first time in the history of NLAC for tertiary level to have reached a mark of almost a thousand college students, 899 to be exact, and also 30 from the graduate studies. Thus the following are the general breakdown from each school: School of Arts and Sciences 96; School of Business Education 144; School of Computing 96; School of Nursing 261; School of Teacher Education 158; and School of Theology 144.

Meanwhile, the academy has a total of 249 for Senior High School and 150 for Junior High School. The breakdown is as follows per strand in the SHS, ABM 12 for Grade 11 & 14 for Grade 12; HUMSS 22 for Grade 11 & 21 for Grade 12; Turn on page 27

ESoC Elects Officers

After more than two years of the GLOBAL pandemic from March 2020, the English Society Club, commonly known as ESoC of NLAC elected its set of officers via F2F modality on August 30, Tuesday at C-9 under the supervision of one of the Club advisers, Ms. Jacquiline Mendoza.

The set of officers elected include Yhuzziel Mae Pacuyao as president, Lairine Almazan as vice president religious, Christine Joy Agyapas as vice president social, Jizelle Kate Tadeo as secretary, Turn on page 9

NLAC Student Council, Clubs/Organizations Officers Inducted

The Student Council Officers for this school year, 2022-2023, along with other clubs and organization officers of the college, were inducted into office during a special colloquium program at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall on Friday, September 2, 2022.

The current Student Council office is under the leadership of its president, Alondra Aldrianne G. Sildo, a senior English major student, who succeeded the outgoing president, Reuel Jeush Madayag, a magna cum laude graduate, last May 30.

The theme for this year’s induction, “100 Reasons to Serve: The Centennial Leaders of NLAC,” was expounded and elaborated by the keynote speaker, Pastor Erwin Agdeppa, chairman of the Religious Life Committee of NLAC and a theology instructor in the college.

Pastor Agdeppa emphasized only two things in his remarkable speech, which are (1) his MESSAGE that was focused on the biblical passage from Numbers 32:12 which states: “Save Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite, and Joshua the son of Nun: for they who have wholly {and wholeheartedly} followed the LORD.” in leading out the Israelites as they were the only two remaining spies out of the ten who stood for the best in their bound to the “Land of Promise,” which is Canaaan, and (2) his CHALLENGE and appeal to all inducted officers, like Caleb and Joshua, to prove their worth as elected Centennial Leaders of today.

Thus, these centennial leaders as they preferred to call themselves that way were dedicated through a solemn prayer by Dr. Lawrence Domingo, NLAC president, who is also one of the SC advisers along with Mr. Jan Paulo Santos.

Student Council officers for the school year 2022-2023

NLAC-ESoC officers for the school year 2022-2023

NLAC Acquaintance Held

by Brian Ledda, BSEd I Science

After two years of the global pandemic in 2020, NLAC this first semester as it has gotten back to the transition period of conducting face-to-face classes has to begin as part of the semester with the traditional acquaintance amongst college students on September 30, 2022, at the David & Ruth Pulido Pavilion. The said college acquaintance was spearheaded by the Student Council officers, led by the president, Alondra Sildo, and her fellow officers.

Thus, as a requirement for attendance, students were assigned different colours of shirts according to their year level, such as white for freshmen, red for sophomores, yellow for juniors, and black for seniors. Those students who paid the entrance fee of P30 prior to the due date received a ticket that served as a food pass that entitles them to get ice cream, burgers, and pancit. There were also walk-in admissions, wherein students received a stamp on their wrist, which means they can only get ice cream.

The socialization program consisted of some students’ showcasing of their singing ability, which garnered a grand applause, some preferred to go either on a selfie or groupie at the photo booth together with their friends, others went to the ice cream stall simply to enjoy the various creamy flavours. And as always part of any socialization at NLAC is the conducting of the so-called “vegetarian dance” for Adventists which is the marching that requires a couple (sweetheart) to march together in holding hands following the tune and flow of a joyful musical instrument being played on. There was also a draw game for the first 100 students that received a prize according to one’s pick. Students were also allowed to shout out via text messages that will be read by the program emcees, Jan Paulo Santos and Vergel Jay Vinas. Other socialization includes a ball game called “tampalok,” which is played by all four-year levels from the first year to the fourth year and consists of three sets of the game.

As the acquaintance started with a devotional message by Jhon Paulo Roa, a fourth year theology student, the same acquaintance ended with closing remarks from the SC president herself, Alondra Sildo.

The following people have agreed to work alongside Sildo in the SC for the entire school year: Zyrelle Libalib as vice president religious; Hazel Cena as vice president social; Trizza Valencia as secretary; Frene Tugay as associate secretary; Jon Draniel Delos Santos as treasurer; Ruth Mana-ay as associate treasurer; Hannah Talania as auditor; Shekinah Villarica as PIO;  Philip De Guzman as parliamentarian; Venes Ruth De Gracia as 4th year representative; Idden Caldit as 3rd year representative; Lea Eshedo as 2nd year representative; and Arnold De Vera as 1st year representative. SC advisers include Dr. Lawrence Domingo, NLAC president, and Mr. Jan Paulo Santos, a CPA instructor at the college.

from page 8 ESoC Elects Officers

Mary Ann Abriol as assoc. secretary, Jodi Kate Dela Cruz as treasurer, Kimberly Corpuz as assoc. treasurer, Angeline Agsalog as auditor, Lovely Arguillas as PIO, Mycah Abalos and Rene Bano as vigilance officers, Lovely Peredo and Heide Reyes as artists, Queenie Namuag as muse, and Jack Abulencia as escort. The two other club advisers are Ms. Ofelia Acosta and Ms. Marites Salvador, both English instructors in the college.

The said ESoC was originally organized in July 2017 with the formulation of its Constitution and By-Laws by Dr. Marvin Nonoy Campit, dean of the School of Teacher Education, then and now, and also the close supervision of the (maiden) adviser until now, Ms. Jacquiline Mendoza.

It has always been the organization of the Club to conduct and sponsor the yearly program during colloquium for the English Festival which is a celebration in acknowledgment of the “second language” English as one of the official languages {in school, colleges, and universities} used for purposes of communication and instruction as stated in the 1987 Philippine Constitution, in addition to the use of the National Language which is Filipino.

The club has way more than half year to go the second semester in preparation for the said English Festival in April 2023.

SC Leads NLAC Intramural

by John Lester Diamsay, ABTheo I

The Student Council officers with their president, Alondra Sildo, led this year’s college intramurals with its games elimination in three preopening consecutive Sundays, November 6, 13, and 20 following the proper intramural days on November 2325, 2022 with an opening ceremony in form of a grand parade from NLAC campus to the town of Sison and back as led by the Marcial Masterguides, along with the Student Council officers and students, faculty and staff, and the four teams in the intramural which included the Yellow Jaguars, Pink Panthers, Orange Wildcats, and Green Vipers.

Upon return from the parade, an early morning devotional on the college lawn took place, delivered by Dr. Arnulfo Castillo, Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences. Thus, in his message, he emphasized the intramural theme, which is “Power of One,” that is, the power of unity. The Power of One-Unity in Christ’s intercessory prayer concerning unity. Thus Jesus prayed for 1. Unity for His disciples and for all believers, 2. Prayed for their protection, and 3. Prayed for their sanctification through His words and oneness in love, even as He and the Father love each other. He wants this love to be reflected amongst humanity, as ‘He is love’ in 1 John 4:8. For loving one another is a mark of being Christ’s disciples--John 13:34-35. Love protects and is patient among others as stated in 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8 so as one plays and protects one another likewise engages in friendly games and sportsmanship sanctified along in one Christian belief.

ESoC Holds Acquaintance

The English Society Club, commonly known as ESoC, of NLAC held the regular acquaintance this first semester after two years of the global pandemic wayback 2020.

The said social fellowship that was held Friday, Sept. 23 at C-3 has for the theme, “Celebrando

The torch-lighting ceremony was led by Hazel Grace Cena, Vice President of Social in the Student Council, and the oath-taking ceremony was led by Alondra Sildo, SC president, before she officially declared the intramural proper “now open.”

On the first day, students mostly played ball games, board games, and “palarong lahi” while each school in the college installed its respective stores for buy and sell small businesses.

La Unidad”. The program has two parts, (1) a short devotional as led by a senior student, Lovely Arguillas, the known “pastora” of the club and (2) the regular games and plays following the “chow” afterwards that consisted of white spaghetti carbonara, popcorn, and juice.

ESoC acquaintance was attended by the English major students from first year to fourth year along with two of the ESoC advisers, Ms. Jacquiline Mendoza and Ms. Marites Salvador minus Ms. Ofelia Acosta who wasn’t able to come because of an important appointment. All three ESoC advisers are the same English instructors in the college.

The success of the said acquaintance party was through initiative and united efforts of ESoC officers led by Yhuzziel Mae Pacuyao as club president for two consecutive school year last and this year.

SC President Alondra Sildo

Yellow Jaguars team

Orange Wildcats team

Lighting of Torch Ceremony

Pink Panthers team

Green Vipers team

NLAC-ESoC members for the school year 2022-2023

Buwan ng Wika

Matapos ang dalawang taong pandemya, ang NORTHERN LUZON ADVENTIST COLLEGE, sa kaunaunahang panglahatang F2F modality ng colloquium, sa wakas ay muling nakapagdiwang ng Buwan ng Wika na may temang “Filipino at mga Katutubong Wika: Kasangkapan sa Pagtuklas at Paglikha.”

Ang selebrasyon ay isinagawa noong Biyernes, Agosto 26 sa Aguinaldo Balinao Hall na nagsagawa din ng napakasayang quiz bee na my titulong “Tagisan ng Talino” na pinangunahan nina Venes Ruth De Gracia at Shakey Villarica, kapwa Filipino medyor na mga estudyante.

Nakilahok ang anim na departamento sa kolehiyo na may tagtatatlong miyembro na kakatawan sa tag-isang ito. Ang departamento ng School of Business Education ang nagwagi at nakakuha ng pinakamataas na puntos na 43. Pumangalawa naman ang departamento ng Psychology, sa ilalim ng School of Arts & Sciences at

Language Month

NORTHERN LUZON ADVENTIST COLLEGE held its first grand colloquium program for the college in a F2F modality after two years of the global pandemic to celebrate the supposed yearly celebrations of the so-called Buwan ng Wika with the theme this year, “Filipino at mga Katutubong Wika: Kasangkapan as Pagtuklas at Paglikha”.

The said celebration was held Friday, August 26 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall which catered primarily the fun-filled quiz bee called “Tagisan ng Talino” as hosted by two Filipino major students, Venes Ruth de Gracia and Shakey Villarica and as participated in by group of three member representatives from the six schools in the college with the School of Business Education as the group champion garnering the highest points of 43 followed by the Psychology department under the School of Arts & Sciences, and lastly the School of Nursing.

ang School of Nursing ang pumangatlo.

Nagsagawa rin ng dalawang online contest ang pamunuan ng PKF (Pampaaralang Kapisanan sa Filipino) na kung saan si Bb. Jamin Miah Limson ang nanguna sa pinaka best na tula sa komposisyon at si Effie Ninalga naman ang nanguna sa creative slogan-making, pinangalawahan ni Angel Guasch at pinangatluhan ni Miriam Luisa Tabianan.

Ang tagumpay ng programa ng Buwan ng Wika ay kredito sa lahat ng Filipino major – mula freshmen hanggang sa seniors sa pangunguna ng koordineytor, tagapayo at tagapagturo sa Filipino sa kolehiyo, Gng. Jocelyn Peralta-Mendoza at siya ring naging pambungad na tagapagsalita sa nasabing programa.

Two forms of online contests were administered and later works of winners were presented during the colloquium program as flashed on screen which include the (1) best poem composition went to Jamin Miah Limson, and (2) the creative slogan-making that went to the following as first Kim Effie Ninalga, second Angel Guasch, and third Miriam Luisa Tabianan.

The success of the “Buwan ng Wika” credits to all the Filipino majors from first year to fourth year levels with supervision of the coordinator-adviser and Filipino instructor in the college, Mrs. Jocelyn Peralta-Mendoza who delivered the same the opening remarks earlier of the program.

Note: News Version in English

Pansinin: Bersyong Balita sa Filipino

NLAC Workers Committed and Dedicated for ‘Greater Cause’

NLAC faculty and staff were prepared to commit and dedicate themselves for a Greater Cause “In the King’s Service” for this school year 2022-2023 through an exclusive Week of Spiritual Enrichment from August 8-13, 2022 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall with the culmination of a commitment service following an Agape feast on Friday vesper with Pastor Maximino Cadalig, president of Mountain Provinces Mission, as the entire resource speaker for the special week that inspired each worker about having the JOY in the service of the King as exemplified in the theme song, “I am Happy in the Service of the King”.

As paraphrased quoted from the speaker in one of his sermon sessions as stated: To be “In the King’s Service” is to have the “Mind of Christ” in us by reading

NLAC Holds General Orientation

After two years of GLOBAL pandemic, the general orientation for opening of classes for the academic school year 2022-2023 at Northern Luzon Adventist College in a limited face-to-face through shifting schedule was held in two separate orientations for (1) the exclusive School of Nursing having the highest number of enrollees, on Wednesday August 17, and (2) the college orientation as whole the following day, August 18 which both orientations were held at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall.

In the said shifting schedule of classes requires the start to have the first four days of classes on August 22 from pre-school to tertiary for scheduled dates by department and school in a limited F2F following the ten-day virtual classes using the platform of Learning Management System of NLAC for virtual classes. Thus this will be the shifting of schedule for 4-10 day F2F and virtual classes respectively to cycle upon the whole semester following strict compliance to all Covid-19 protocols.

The said college orientation was divided into two parts such as (1) warm welcome remarks from the College president, Dr. Lawrence Domingo, and the introduction of college administration and deans including respective faculty of each department

thoroughly the scriptures, being prayerful, and being filled with the Holy Spirit for [only] those who have the mind of Christ will certainly attain salvation in God’s heavenly kingdom.

After commitment service on Friday early eve was the Agape feast offered to all workers and students alike that features the serving of fresh fruits and vegetables as light meal for dinner. As according to Pastor Erwin Agdeppa, the said Agape Feast was a perfect picture of that heavenly social banquet anyone looks forward to spiritual fellowship and physical nourishment.

and school, and (2) health lecture procedures about Covid-19 protocols to be implemented at NLAC as presented by Ms. Daryl Grace Asuncion, college nurse, and by Dr. Cheryl Lyn Sanchez, chair of the Covid-19 Committee of NLAC.

Primarily in the introductions foremost from the president are his associates in administration such as Dr. Melina Anne Manlongat, vice president for Academic Affairs; Pastor Lowel Domocmat, vice president for Student Services; and Mr. Harris Narbarte, vice president for Finance.

Along side with that was also the introduction of each dean in the college as presented by the academics to mention the following: School of Arts & Sciences under Dr. Arnulfo Castillo; School of Business Education under Dr. Roseller Delloro; School of Computing under Mr. Mirmel Miranda; School of Nursing under Dr. Ma. Carmela Lacsa Domocmat; School of Teacher Education under Dr. Marvin Nonoy Campit; and School of Theology under Pastor Lowel Domocmat.

The orientation ended with various announcement from the Academic Affairs, Dr. Melina Anne Manlongat, and the Student Services, Pastor Lowel Domocmat.

NLAC faculty and staff for the school year 2022-2023 Pastor Max Cadalig

College students as whole during the general orientation

NLAC Faculty Given Recognition on World Teacher’s Day

by John Lester Diamsay,

NLAC faculty teaching force were given a special recognition during World Teacher’s Day celebration at NLAC on October 7, 2022 during a special colloquium the same as spearheaded by the School of Teacher Education under the deanship of Dr. Marvin Nonoy Campit and with the student initiative in leading the program by Yhuzziel Mae Pacuyao, STE president, and her fellow officers.

There were various presentations prepared by each school such as the following: School of Theology created a poem video presentation entitled “Teachers” by Jherry

The recognition program consisted primarily of a devotional message to start with as delivered by Joshua Miranda, a freshman theology student. In his message, he emphasized three important ways in showing love and care for teachers in the form of verbal infinitive mandating students to OBEY, to RESPECT, and to THANK teachers in everything they have done goodly for the students’ sake. And as testified and emphasized further the message through an interview, another theology student, Norlie John Turqueza, said that truly teachers deserve recognitions and appreciations for their daily sacrifices in teaching students for good and in the moulding of minds and characters of pupils especially in the Basic Education program for the elementary.

Faculty Members

College Holds ‘Bayanihan’

Bhoy Taccad, a sophomore theology student; School of Nursing performed a song in appreciation for the teachers; School of Business Education performed an acrostic where they described the characteristics of each letter in the word TEACHERS; School of Arts and Sciences offered a song composed for teachers entitled “Thank you” that credits Trizza Minrelle Valencia, a junior psychology student, for the lyrics; and School of Teacher Education as prepared by Venes Ruth de Gracia has a game entitled “Compare me” in which each department compared and described teachers from the things that are found in the kitchen, living room, garden, hospital, and classroom.

While the program started with an opening remarks by Venes Ruth de Gracia, a senior Filipino major student, the program ended with a closing remarks from Pastor Lowel Domocmat, dean in the School of Theology and vice president for Student Services.

After Bayanihan at the famous landmark,

As part of the early PREPARATION for the Centennial Anniversary celebrations in February 2023, NLAC as one college FAMILY from elementary to college holds a UNITED ‘spick-and-span’ half day “Bayanihan Drive” on Friday November 18, 2022.

The said “bayanihan” required each department and schools in the college to have its corresponding cleaning area of assignments as participated in by both faculty and staff as well as pupils in the higher elementary grades and students from the secondary and tertiary levels.

The half day cleaning drive left a picture ENVIRONMENT of orderliness and CLEANLINESS as next to godliness inside the campus of NLAC.

“I Heart NLAC”

Pulido Promenade

College building and its front lawn

Joshua Anthony Mranda

ABTheo I

NLAC School of Theology Hosts Special Theological Forum on ‘The Holy Spirit in Adventism’

The School of Theology at NLAC hosted a special theological forum with the theme, “The Holy Spirit in Adventism” as program sponsored by Education department of Southern AsiaPacific Division and the Ministerial department of North Philippine Union Conference in one with its counterpart at Northern Luzon Mission and in participation of Northern Luzon Adventist College.

The theme of the said forum was expounded by three resource speakers namely: Pastor Marvin Diaz, Ministerial secretary of NPUC, who emphasized the deity of the Holy Spirit as part of the Triune GOD aside from God the Father and the Son Jesus Christ; Pastor Ismael Cabason, NLM president, who explained the Pauline concept of pneumatology which is a teaching about God’s Trinity; and Pastor Lowel Domocmat, dean of the School of Theology and vice president for Student Services at NLAC, who further elaborated the understanding about the Holy Spirit in Greek of the New Testament Bible and also a discussion on the development of Adventist belief about the Holy Spirit.

As emphasized by Pastor Marvin Diaz, this theological forum was held to inform, prepare and

Week of Spiritual Refreshing Conducted

by John Lester Diamsay, ABTheo I

The week of spiritual refreshing at NLAC was conducted at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall on December 5-10, 2022 with the theme “Virtuous Life” as expounded by three different speakers namely: Pastor Ismael Cabason, president of Northern Luzon Mission, spoke from Monday to Thursday to the faculty and staff including college students; Pastor Lowel

make awarely cautious the student pastors about this significant Adventist fundamental doctrine about God’s Trinity as this is a common issue encountered in the field as often asked by brethren and during Bible study series for evangelistic meetings.

The said forum that was held on a whole Sabbath day September 17, 2022 at David & Ruth Pavilion of NLAC was exclusively attended by theology college students of NLAC, pastors and laymen of NLM, and everyone interested.

Domocmat, dean of the School of Theology, spoke on vesper service Friday following the communion service and the feet washing; and Pastor Elias Rafanan, retired president of NLM, spoke on the Sabbath divine hour of worship that that coincided his speakership the same as guest speaker in the celebration of NLA Class ’72 Golden Anniversary at NLAC Adventist church that Sabbath day.

In elaboration of the theme, “Virtuous Life” has the following topics for Pastor Cabason on “See Through”, “Palabra de Honor”, “Sing Tibay ng Pader”, and “On Par”; for Pastor Domocmat on “True Greatness”; and Pastor Rafanan on “The Compass”.

Pastor Ismael Cabason, NLM president

Pastor Marvin Diaz, NPUC Ministerial secretary

Pastor Lowel Domocmat, NLAC dean of the School of Theology

NLAC Adventist Church Participates ‘Hope Impact”

by Merwin Dela Cruz, ABTheo I

Northern Luzon Adventist College Adventist church participated in the worldwide “Hope Impact” outreach integrated evangelism program that consisted of free distribution of books and other missionary materials either printed or digital. For this year’s theme, “I am a Messenger Send me, I will Go” and with the initiative of the Adventist Youth Council of NLAC headed by Mr. Dominador Luaya, Jr. and the cooperation of Ministerial Association led by Jessie Catungal as president, faculty and students distributed books and pamphlets, offered prayers and song to the visited nearby communities such as barangays, towns, and cities.

In an interview with NLAC church Pastor Benjamin Dotimas as he quoted: “Hope impact aims to give hope to the hopeless and to reach the unreachable”. Along with Ann Malacad, one of the AY councils, who also stated: “As a youth let us spend our precious days on what really matters the most”.

According to the Seventh-day Adventists encyclopedia record, the Hope Impact is a Seventh-day Adventist Church evangelistic project that developed

Lozada Goes ahead upon 60

Mr. Oseas Comillas Lozada, a long-time alumni worker of NLAC, went ahead in this life on Sunday November 27, 2022 at the NLAC Pavilion after he slowly collapsed while into a session of joining a tennis tournament that day. He was yet rushed to NLAHospital but no avail.

“Amang” as he was fondly and familiarly addressed by his family and friends including colleagues, came to work at NLAC along with his family in 1994 where his two growing-up daughters, Minerva and Pinky, finished their entire education at NLAC per se. And it was also in the span of their stay at NLAC that two more sons were born, John Joseph and Glenson.

“Amang”, along with his wife the former Agnes Abbang, was into the auxiliary department at NLAC for 28 years since 1994. Amang was long-time into the maintenance department while manang Agnes into the laundry shop and into other departments.

in the South American Division territory

(SAD).

This project is part of a broader integrated evangelism program and consists of the free distribution of books and other missionary materials - printed and digital. And since it’s creation week at NLAC then, the Hope Impact has engaged church leaders and members, as well as other supporters and Adventist institutions, whose efforts have reached the most diverse publics in society. The initiative operates from local churches, where members are mobilized and organized into groups and carry out a massive and diversified distribution of the material in sparsely or heavily populated locations.

“Amang” was often described as “a man of few words” but was known to be humble, kind, and DEDICATED worker in whatever capacity of work assignment appointed to him. He hails from Logac, Lallo, Cagayan.

Pastor Benjamin Dotimas

Jessie Catungal, Ministerial Association president

Agunan is NLAC New Church Pastor

by Edison Aceberos Jr., ABTheo I

Pastor Maxwell Agunan, an MA holder in Ministry at AIIAS, and an alumnus of NLAC Class 2002, is the new church pastor of NLAC Adventist church replacing Pastor Benjamin Dotimas who was assigned in Central Tarlac district. Prior to Agunan’s recent appointment and installation on November 4, 2022 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall, he was connected shortly with Northern Luzon Mission as Communication, Health, and PARL director. He has around 13 years of experiences in the field as district pastor of NELAC church, in the provinces of Cagayan, Isabela, Ilocos Norte, and also was part of a Church planting project in La Union.

His installation into the church ministry at NLAC was administered by the respective presidents of NLM and NLAC, Pastor Ismael Cabason and Dr. Lawrence Domingo including Pastor Lowel Domocmat, vice president for Student Services. In one of his delivered Sabbath sermons, Pastor Agunan shared a wonderful message with the congregation about how God will bless His people when they (people) take care of His tabernacle the church. Thus it is his vision for each church member of NLAC to encourage becoming involved in the spreading of the “gospel commission’.

Pastor Maxwell Domocmat Agunan hails from Santa Cruz, Ilocos Sur. He married the former Mary Ann Clemente, a registered nurse and a medical missionary from Rizal, Calinga. And together they have two growingup children, Joshua 10, and Shelter, 6 years old.

Advent Chorale of the Philippines Conducts Thanksgiving Religious Concert

by

NLAC Advent Chorale of the Philippines which comprises of the following choir groups such as Amadeuz Advent Singers, HIRAYA, Neo Octava, NLAC Chorale, NLAC Little Singers, NLAC Prymbassadors, Remnant Square Chorale, and Young Harmonic Heralds conducted a year-end Thanksgiving religious concert on the eve of December 10 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall to celebrate the annual traditions of the Christmas nativity.

The concert proper consisted of the singing one after the other of each choir member of the Advent Chorale including intermissions by Clyde and Madison De Guzman. The Thanksgiving concert message was delivered by Mrs. Elvie Padua from the Music Committee of NLAC. There was also a collection of love offering as the HIRAYA instrumental group rendered an inspiring musical number. The opening and closing remarks were rendered by Pastor Lowel Domocmat and Dr. Lawrence Domingo, choir group head of the Ladies Ensemble of NLAC.

The finale song was sung by the entire casts of the Advent Chorale of the Philippines in singing the Tagalog hymn entitled “Munting Sanggol” which speaks about Christmas nativity per se.

Advent Chorale of the Philippines

Amadeuz Advent Singers

NLAC Prymbassadors

Charlymagne Canoy, ABTheo III

NLAC Celebrates Year-end Thanksgiving 2022

NORTHERN LUZON ADVENTIST COLLEGE faculty and staff including respective family members of each celebrated the year-end Thanksgiving with a joyful fellowship on December 16, 2022 at the David & Ruth Pulido Pavilion.

The said socialization started with a devotional by NLAC church Pastor Maxwell Agunan who inspired a message about giving THANKS in everything either good or bad for God Himself is GOOD just the same at all times and thus thanksgiving is to give PEACE into one’s heart.

The social camaraderie consisted of games both for children and the adults amongst faculty and staff with respective prizes to winners. The climax of the thanksgiving came in the giving and receiving of gifts of each one from the college administration in form of cash and goodies.

There was also a “special gift-giving” in form of a raffle draw from alumni abroad that privileged each worker to receive various gifts in kinds such as desk and stand fan, gas burner, cooler, electric kettle, rice cooker, sleeping mattress, stand mixer, turbo convection oven, and oven toaster among others. Thus each one was made a winner according to one’s draw lot.

There were special prizes that went to the following: Ms. Ervie Ervie Baniago Failma for the grand prize of a turbo convection oven; Mrs. Sallyshayne Damong for the first prize of a charcoal grill; and Ms. Karla Paolo for the second prize of a stand mixer.

As solicited by the college administration are the following list of loving alumni donors such as Helen Allen, Lilia Alnimri, Ben & Gladys Basabas, Marvin & Vangie Berto, Cathy Guerrero, Isabela Mahler, Glen Par, Michotte Salazar, Alfonso Sipus including Northern Luzon Mission, Alumni Association of NLAC, and the NLASAAA (Northern Luzon Adventist Schools Alumni Association of America).

The social thanksgiving ended with an altogether “chow” that consisted of pancit, spaghetti, gulaman, salad, chicken adobo, and the most wanted “pinakbet” plus the ice cream that came in four different flavors. Thus each one went home that day happily full with foods, presents, and GRATITUDE of heart.

Games and plays in actions

NLAC First Couple, Dr. & Mrs. Lawrence Domingo (forefront), in background of the solicited presents from loving alumni local and abroad.

NLAC faculty and staff in Thanksgiving

Receiving of gifts/presents

School of Theology Conducts Creation Sabbath

by Glenn D. Villegas, ABTheo I

The School of Theology of NLAC conducted a Creation Sabbath celebration on a special whole day Sabbath October 22, 2022 in commemoration of God’s magnificent creation of the entire universe including humanity as His masterpiece being created in His image. The Sabbath exposition was spearheaded by the following: Pastor Lowel Domocmat, vice president for Student Services and dean-professor of the School of Theology; Dr. Arnulfo Castillo, theology professor and dean of the School of Arts & Sciences; and Dr. Lawrence Domingo, president of NLAC.

To have a broader idea about the creation and its issues, the speakers presented timely topics and answers to the issues. The first topic was “Understanding Science” as presented by Pastor Lowell Domocmat, who affirmed the importance of believing in science without compromising the scriptures; the second was presented by Dr. Lawrence Domingo in his “The Coconino Footprints” where he addressed the historical and archaeological record of Coconino Footprints in the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona in the United States. He proved that the Coconino Footprints are one of the most powerful pieces of evidence of Noah’s flood in the Biblical account rather than the evidence of evolution. The last presenter came from Dr. Arnulfo Castillo with his topic “Theistic Evolution.” He addressed that Theistic Evolution has no place in the scriptures.

Furthermore, the presenters complement each other in addressing the authenticity of the Biblical account of creation and the historical account of Noah’s flood in the scriptures. In support of the creationist’s view, Ellen White affirmed and quoted the scriptures that “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.” “For He spoke, and it was;” “He commanded, and it stood fast.” Psalm 33:6, 9. He “laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed forever.” Psalm 104:5.”1 Thus, Creation Sabbath is a celebration to remember the engineer of the universe, creator and sustainer, {that} is called God.

“It is easier to forget good things than to forget the bad, and easier to remember bad things than to

remember the good,” that’s why remembering good things in the scriptures is very crucial. According to Research Consultant Megan Brenan, only “40% of Americans believed in Creationism, “2 Just imagine how forgetful the people are!” Here in NLAC, Creation Sabbath is not just remembering the sabbath, it is remembering the Creator and His creation.

Thus the question on why NLAC celebrates the Creation Sabbath annually is to recognize the majesty and beauty of God’s creation and to uphold the biblical story. It is a special Sabbath day set aside to remind of the primary message of the Bible: that our Creator loves us, has purchased our redemption and offers us abundant life. It is not a weekly Sabbath celebration; rather, it is an annual occasion.3

Since the creation narrative of the Bible traces the origins of humans, NLAC cherishes the importance of creation and makes it a priority to celebrate it annually throughout Creation Sabbath month every October which becomes a global celebration by the Seventh-day Adventists.

1 Ellen G. White, Patriarch and Prophets (Silver Spring, MA: Ellen White Estate, Inc., 2010), 44.

2 Megan Brenan, “40% of Americans Believe in Creationism,” Gallup Blog, 26 July 2019, https://news.gallup.com/poll/261680/americansbelieve-creationism.aspx (accessed on December 12, 2022)

3 Ted Wilson, “Celebrating God’s Creation through Nature,” Adventist News, 8 October 2021, https://adventist.news/news/celebratinggods-creation-through-nature (accessed on December 12, 2022)

Glenn D. Villegas is freshman theology student and is also feature editor of the Reflector. He hails from Caloocan City.

MG Hope Inducts NLAC-TKAS Master Guide

by Charlymagne Canoy, ABTheo III

A Masterguide himself, Pastor Noah Hope, Publishing director of Northern Luzon Mission, inducted the TKAS (To Know And Serve) Masterguide trainees of NLAC, on October 19, 2022 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall with the theme, “It Starts Within”.

The said induction was divided into four parts with respective processional in display of the MG staffs and aspirants, as well as, the colors and participants. And for the recessional comprises of the colors, participants, deputy directors, and aspirants the same.

The main program was in form of worship service and the induction proper. And

as part of the worship service was the reciting of the Pathfinder motto, aim, pledge, law, and the singing of the Masterguide song entitled, “It Starts With Me”. The induction proper consisted of the following: the musical offering, the shout of the lost command, explanations of symbol and meaning of the Pathfinder insignia, lighting the spirit of Pathfinder candles, lighting the Law and Pledge its meaning, presentation of candidates for induction, acceptance and declaration, consecration charge, prayer and hymn of consecration, and donning of neckerchief. And most importantly was the transfer of the “Key of Responsibility” from former student director, MG John Kim Gipulan to MG Jaymark Villarante as he accepted the “Key of Responsibility”. The induction ended with a closing remarks from MG Director, Pastor Lowel Domocmat.

NLAC Adventist Church Joins ‘World Pathfinder Day’ Celebrations

The Adventist church of Northern Luzon Adventist College joined in the celebrations of the annual 72nd World Pathfinder Day that comes every third Sabbath of September and for this year 2022 it has the theme, “I Will Go, Change the World” as sponsored and administered by NLAC-TKAS (To Know And to Serve) with MG Ramon Carbajal as divine hour worship speaker at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall on September 17.

The said celebration was spent the whole day from morning Sabbath school program, divine hour worship, youth service until sundown worship in the early eve.

At NLAC, the TKAS Masterguide (MG) Club is under the directorship of MG Domocmat with the student director, MG Jaymark Gil Villarante.

Publishing Director of NLM, Pastor Noah Hope

Inductees with the the NLAC Masterguide Staff

NLAC Masterguide Staff and Counselors

Master Guide Ramon Carbajal

Some activities during World Pathfinder Day at NLAC lawn

by Mary Ann Abriol, BSEd III English

NLAC is in one with the adage that says “health is wealth” and thus the Health Ministries department of NLAC Adventist church had an association called Adventist Health Professionals Ministries and Services Association together with the School of Nursing held a Health Exposition program that emphasized the significance of good lifestyle with the theme, “I Will Go with a Healthy Glow: Sharing Wholeness and Serving All” with Dr. Salvador Rodrigo as guest speaker, a practicing orthopedic surgeon at Sacred Heart Hospital in Urdaneta city, Pangasinan.

Thus the afternoon Sabbath of August 27, 2022 turned out an invitation for each student, faculty, and staff to come and discover marvels of life and to acquire knowledge and reminders on how to live a longer life. Evidently, the organizers prepared a program suitable for all ages. Everyone who participated was informed about the condition of his/ her well-being such as height, weight, BMI (Body Mass index), blood pressure among others.

The program was a holistic event for all. There were seven different booths that served the congregation which are the following: health survey; physical assessment that includes BP/blood sugar check, and BMI determination; dental health promotion; cooking demo for food expo; health counseling; physical fitness challenge; and psychospiritual counseling including mental health.

these were cooked and made. Ladies in a special way also received a donated kit for menstruation which is eco and budget friendly. The program ended with the closing remarks of Dr. Lawrence Domingo, NLAC president, who specifically advised the students to academically excel healthily with the help of the Lord.

Primary organizers of the said Health Expo has for the following set of officers such as Meda Joy Oamil as president; Cheermay Eve de Gracia as vice religious; Grace Mangaoang as vice social; Jedesly Canoy as secretary; Carmela Domocmat as treasurer; and Daryl Grace Asuncion as PIO. Advisers include Mrs. Glenda Unsing and Pastors Jun Rey Decastillo, Benjamin Dotimas, and Adelbert Rosana.

Moreover, the congregation-brethren were fed not only spiritually but also physically with healthy burgers, pasta and juice while the screen showed how

As per Republic Act No. 7079, otherwise known as, “Campus Journalism Act of 1991” which requires to undergo competitive and {qualifying} exams {as well as, interview if necessary} to comprise an editorial board that opened opportunity to all aspiring staffers of any school organ whether in high school or in the tertiary levels.

And NLAC per se is no exception to that R. A for the named staffers of the current Reflector editorial board who underwent a rigid qualifying exams administered by the literary adviser and as opened to all interested college students.

Thus this Reflector is being published by the staffers as seen on the editorial board of this magazine publication.

Reflector Staff Named

Dr. Salvador Rodrigo

Glenda Unsing, Health Ministry Leader, NLAC SDA Church

MA Officers Inducted

by Charlymagne Canoy, ABTheo III

The Ministerial Association which is a religious body of NLAC that comprises students’ activities such as spiritual outreach programs and other religious services in the college, its set of officers for this school year 2021-2022 as headed by the MA president, Jesse Catungal, a junior theology student, and the rest of the officers were inducted during a special vesper service at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall on Friday, October 7, 2002 with the theme: “Call to Make a Difference” as expounded and elaborated by the keynote speaker, Pastor Arnulfo Castillo, dean of the School of Arts & Sciences. Thus Pastor Castillo emphasized four important reminders in his remarkable message such as the following: “we are called to follow”; “we are called to learn”; “we are with Him”; and “we are called to send out to make a difference”.

The induction started with the processional of the newly-elected officers along with the participants including the speaker following the statement of the MA vision and mission on stage as presented by Mary Ann Abriol, PIO officer. The mission states: “The

Ministerial Association is committed to nurture, lead, assist, and consecrate students in the service of God, church, and humanity”. And the vision states: “The Ministerial Association envisions to create a better spiritual life for the students.”

The oath-taking of officers was led by the NLAC church Pastor Benjamin Dotimas following the charge to the officers by Dr. Lawrence Domingo, college president. And lastly, officers were dedicated through prayer by Pastor Erwin Agdeppa, MA adviser and committee chair of the Religious Life of NLAC.

To work hand in hand with the Catungal are the following: Vergel Jay Viñas as vice president for InReach; Jhon Paolo Roa as vice president for Out-Reach; Erica Trono as secretary; Ma. Eriza Trono as associate secretary; Renz Marrion Domingo as treasurer; Resh Mary Ramos as auditor; Mary Ann Abriol and Krister Caleb Guiao as PIO; Jan Kobe Braynt G. Mazo and Moses John Maalihan II as Media and Documentation coordinators; and Arvin Ayson and Jerry Bhoy Hope Taccad as artists. MA adviser is Pastor Erwin Agdeppa, who is also the chair of the Religious Life Committee of NLAC.

NLAC-STE Hurdle LET

by Mary Ann Abriol, BSEd III English

Through God’s providential leading, the School of Teacher Education of NLAC hurdled the Licensure Examination for Teachers as administered by the Professional Regulation Commission from the original date September 25 to October 2 and as finally released on December 16, 2022.

A total of 46 examinees from NLAC was a part of PRC’s proclamation of licensed professional teachers. And to take a closer look, the passing rate for first takers from Bachelor of Elementary Education is

100% (16/16) and 77.42% (24/31) from Bachelor of Secondary Education. On the other hand, the passing rate for second or more takers from BEED is 50% (3/6) and 18.75% (3/16) from BSED.

From the Professional Regulation Commission as a whole stated that 49, 783 out of 91, 468 (54.43%) successfully passed the LET for the elementary level, while 71, 080 out of 139, 534 (50.94%) passed the LET for the secondary level.

Ministerial Association officers for school year 2022-2023, with Pastor Benjamin Dotimas, Pastor Erwin Agdeppa and Pastor Arnulfo Castillo

MA president, Jesse Catungal (extreme left) with some officers and the college president, Dr. Lawrence Domingo (3rd from left)

NLAC Hosts NLM Year-end Praise Meeting

NORTHERN LUZON ADVENTIST COLLEGE

hosted the two-day Year-end Area 4 camp and praise meeting of Northern Luzon Mission with the theme, “I Will Go: Get Involved!” on Friday and Saturday, December 2 & 3, 2022 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall.

Resource speakers mostly come from the College of Theology at the Adventist University of the Philippines who are the following: Pastor Ian Felicitas, head of Theology; Pastors Resty Boaloy and Lito Cadao that are both professors; and Pastor Rico Javien from the College of Medicine.

This campmeeting is the fourth conducted since November 12, 19, and 26 in Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union respectively. Area 4 comprises seven districts from Pangasinan such as the following: Eastern Pangasinan A& B; North Pangasinan A & B; Sison A & B; and NLAC church.

The said Year-end Camp and praise meeting originally started in 2016 during the term of leadership by Pastor Marvin Diaz as president of NLM which

A Camp Meeting of Involvement

by Mary Ann Abriol, BSEd III English

Northern Luzon Adventist College welcomed the camporees from Area 4 for a camp meeting on December 2-3, 2022 with a theme “I Will Go: Get Involved.” The event officially started on Friday night with Pastor Lito Cadao who delivered the Lord’s message regarding the ways on how to live on earth while waiting for Christ’s soon return. The next day, Pastor Restituto Boaloy brought the morning manna to the church members along with the celebration of Sabbath day.

The proper Sabbath school took place in Aguinaldo Balinao Hall from eight o’clock to to ten in the morning. Pastor Ian Felicitas talked before heading to the week’s lesson study entitled “The Fires of Hell.” The spoken word on the divine hour of worship was given by Pastor Rico Javien.

continues until today under the term of Pastor Ismael Cabason. Thus it was also in 2016 that the said project which turned out into a program today

“Alkansya ko, Alay ko” was started to support the building of churches in the various territories of Northern Luzon Mission. And in last Sabbath’s collection for “Alkansya ko, Alay ko” has a total of PhP 226,513.16.

The afternoon services were filled with useful informations about Mrs. Ellen G. White’s life and works especially the credibility of her writings as one of good sources in studying the gospel of the Lord. The second lecture was led by Pastor Restituto Boaloy followed by Pastor Lito Cadao as the third lecturer. A commitment service was bestowed upon the members who were appointed to do a unique task. Pastor Rico Javien provided the encouragement for the people of God. The meeting’s culmination was full of thanksgiving and appreciation from NLM’s President, Pastor Ismael Cabason. The camp meeting was another program held at NLAC which was shared with fellow believers who were uplifted by songs of praises and timely messages.

At Aguinaldo Balinao Hall

Listening congregation

NLAC-SON Holds 26th Pinning, Capping

by Karla Mae Viernes-Paulo, Clinical Instructor

NLAC School of Nursing held its 26th pinning and capping including candlelighting and striping ceremony that was held October 16, 2022 at Aguinaldo Balinao Hall with keynote speaker, Dr. Sabina Pariñas, alumna of NLAC-School of Nursing, Class .

In her speech, Dr. Pariñas emphasized that as a profession, nurses must serve with passion as exemplified with the theme “Meraki”; that is, doing something with soul, creativity, and love . She further challenged the Level II student nurses to go into all the world and shine brightly their candles without fear to serve humanity’s sake for good, better and best.

There are 96 Level II student nurses who received their pins and were capped in which 27 are gentlemen and 69 are ladies under their Level II clinical instructors, Ms. Karla Mae Paulo and Miss Liwliwa Sales. The same Level II students were

dedicated through prayer by Pastor Arnulfo Castillo, dean of the School of Arts & Sciences.

Significantly alike as parts of the program was the entrance of Florence Nightingale as represented by Miss Jaydee Rabano, staff nurse of Saint Luke’s Medical Center. She also led the Florence Nightingale pledge. The program ended with a special tribute to parents and sponsors as delivered by the class vice president religious, Ma. Eriza Trono and also the tribute to clinical instructors by the SNC president, Jon Draniel Delos Santos. The faculty response was given by Ms. Arceli Lagmay, RLE Coordinator and the closing remarks was delivered by the Dean of School of Nursing, Dr. Ma. Carmela L. Domocmat.

The success, with Divine intervention, of the capping and pinning ceremonies credits the united effort of the entire School of Nursing headed by the dean, Dr. Ma. Carmela Domocmat, and all clinical instructors and student nurses.

SON Celebrates Nurses Week, Conducts Blood Donation

by Jastine Hazel Pambalan- BSN II

The School of Nursing of NLAC celebrated a week-long activity in participation of the National Nurses Week. The celebration focused on the need to protect, support, and invest in the nursing profession to strengthen health systems around the world. The School of Nursing organized a three-day food booth wherein student nurses sold a variety of foods and beverages. And as part of the celebration, the Level III student nurses organized a Blood Donation Drive with the Philippine Red Cross garnering 56 blood bags. While the Level IV student nurses also held a successful First Aid Seminar focused on educating

students on how to respond during emergencies such as brain stroke, seizures, choking, and animal bites and how to properly apply cardiopulmonary resuscitation with unconscious patients.

The last day of Nurses Week ended with a musical presentation (12 cranial nerves by the Level 1 student nurses), a health quiz (led by the Level II students), an on-the-spot poster-making contest participated in by the different schools, and a skit presented by the selected student nurses. The skit portrays the history of nursing, its advancement, nurses’ essence, and their selfless sacrifice in healthcare.

Domingo is 7th President of NLAC

Dr. Lawrence L. Domingo, former Education director of Southern Asia-Pacific Division of the Seventh-day Adventists, is today’s newly-installed 7th president in chronology as president of Northern Luzon Adventist College.

Prior to Dr. Domingo’s formal installation, he has been with NLAC as OIC-president since early January this year as per special appointment by the North Philippine Union Conference (NPUC) following his actual election by the Board of Trustees (BOT) of NLAC placing him formally to office as president on March 10, 2022. Dr. Domingo in his positive mind set is to lead this College in the next four years until 2025 with much enthusiasm to fulfill the “Great Commission” as stated in Matthew 28: 19, 20 to go into all the world and teach good things all in accordance to God’s will.

As part of the installation ceremony was the “passing of the college maze” that was led by former NLAC president, Pastor Nepthali Manez up to the NLAC Board of Trustees chairman and the president of North Philippine Union Conference, Pastor Arnel Gabin, who finally handed the maze to and also gave the “charge of responsibility” to Dr. Domingo. Thus in response, the new president challenged the same the faculty and staff of NLAC to be in ONE POWER for cooperation and collaboration with him to finish God’s work and ministry at NLAC.

Further, Dr. Lawrence Domingo was prayed for

NLA Class ‘86,’90 Hold Mini-réunion

In PREPARATION to spark up the EXCITEMENT for the CENTENNIAL Anniversary celebrations of NLA/C on February 26-March 4, 2023, the former NLA Class of 1986 and 1990 respectively held a simultaneous mini-réunion yesterday at NLACSM (Sirok Mangga) and at Soul de Iloko on Nov. 20, 2022.

It was both a personal overall TOUR by the alumni homecomers afterwards at the fave spots at then NLA in the flagpole, at the lawn, the Old Girls’ dorm, inside the classroom, fronts of Aguinaldo Balinao Hall and the guest house, and the famous landmark

thru a dedicatory by Pastor Ismael Cabason, president of Northern Luzon Mission. Meanwhile, two special presidential greetings were delivered by Dr. Danilo Bose, OICdirector IV of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and also by Mr. Daniel Uy, in lieu of his father, the Hon. Danny Uy, town mayor of Sison.

Dr. Lawrence Lirazan Domingo was born in Lebak, Sultan Kudarat. He married the former Ms. Everlita Valenzuela, a teacher and a librarian by profession from South Cotabato. And together they have two grown-up children, (1) a daughter named Lynelle who was married to Capt. Marlon Antonio, a chaplain of the AFP, and (2) a son named LeGrand Lyle, a registered nurse working at Adventist Medical Center in Manila. Likewise today, Doc Lawrence also enjoys the “Apostolic” ministry to two grandchildren named Mirth and Millicent.

today, “I Heart NLAC”.

Truly, NLA Class 1990 often has various minireunions where there’s opportunity in any part of the GLOBE. Just recently, with the going of then class president, Dr. Sheryl Lalas-Ronas, to the US to attend a work-related convention in Florida, she was this early November with few of the class members residing mostly in California, USA.

Thus her going is considered a BLESSING as she’s able to receive from classmates a good AMOUNT of contribution for the “Centennial Walk of Faith” project of NLAC for the Circumferential road. The former Ms. Sheryl Lalas is expected to get back home to the Philippines on December 1, 2022.

NLA Class 1986 at the famous landmark the same

At the famous NLAC landmark, from Left: Lorna Bernal, Jacqueline Pagaduan, Annabelle Gaudia, Blanche Aquino, Jane Capiendo, Jeffrey Joeffrey Mariñas Cope, Marlinda Aceres, Sandee Domaloy, Elvie Carnate, and Bavilyn Bagcal.

NLASAAA Holds 28th Anniversary Convocation

NLASAA (Northern Luzon Adventist Schools Alumni Association) of America is holding its 28th Convocation on October 14 & 15 with the theme: “Thriving amidst Change” that is taking place during vesper service on Friday night and divine hour worship at the morning and in the afternoon program of the whole Sabbath at Loma Linda Filipino church in California.

Two resource speakers include Pastor Eric Flickinger, a popular author and television speaker, as keynote speaker; and also, Dr. Lawrence Domingo, current and seventh president of Northern Luzon Adventist College.

NLASAA comprises three sister Adventist school institutions in Northern part of Luzon island in the Philippines such as Conception Adventist Academy in Gregorio del Pilar, Ilocos Sur; Tirad View Academy in Quirino, Ilocos Sur; and the former Northern Luzon Academy, now Northern Luzon Adventist College, located in Artacho, Sison, Pangasinan.

Domingo First Couple Attend NLASAAA Convocation

NLAC First Couple, Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Everlita Domingo attended the 28th anniversary convocation of NLASAA (Northern Luzon Adventist Schools Alumni Association) of America on October 14 & 15, 2022 at Loma Linda, California, USA in which the going of the First Couple was especially sponsored by NLASAA itself.

The said convocation was attended by alumni abroad of three sister school institutions in Northern Luzon of the Philippines such as Conception Adventist Academy (CAA); Tirad View Academy (TVA); and the former Northern Luzon Academy (NLA), now Northern Luzon Adventist College located (NLAC). And it has for the primary purpose of creating a closer camaraderie amongst and between alumni members abroad and also to have better plans for the respective Alma mater especially at NLA/NLAC as it approaches its Centennial Anniversary celebrations and foundations on February 26-March 4, 2023.

NLAC Acquires New Bus

Northern Luzon Adventist College has recently acquired a Hyundai Universe Prime Bus. The 49-seater bus will serve the college in its outreach ministries, community service programs, the shuttle needs of the

students, and as the main transport of the School of Nursing in their clinical rotations. The acquisition has been in the plans for many months, in response to the varied transportation needs of the institution.

Thus the initial acquisitions earlier this year were two Toyota Grandias, and these vehicles, along with the old Grandia and the Isuzu Community van, had served the college’s transportation needs all these years. Now, a greater opportunity to serve the church better is enabled with this new giant vehicle at the college disposal. The God of all creation is to be praised for blessings that overflow.—Lawrence L. Domingo

Pastor Erick Flickinger

NLAC Hosts

1st International Seminary Extension Education Summit

July 26, 2022--Northern Luzon Adventist College hosted for a day the first Seminary Extension Education Summit as affiliated with Andrews University Theological Seminary, La Sierra University’s HMS Richard’s Divinity School, and the Pacific Institute of Christian Ministry under the professorial seminary lecturer from Andrews University, Dr. VicLouis Arreola III in his various presentations of topics about church leadership growths elaborating the theme, “Leadership for Healthy Church Revitalization” for the morning and afternoon sessions.

For the morning, Dr. Arreola discussed on the “Seven Phases of {a} Healthy Missional Leadership” which includes (1) setting a planning model, (2) building your team, (3) know your team, (4) discover communication and leadership styles, (5) establish your core foundation, (6) set a ministry timeline, and (7) implement and follow a cycle.

In the afternoon, he talked about the “Healthy Church Revitalization” with five sessions namely: (1) passion, vision, mission {of the church}; (2) the five elements of {a} healthy church; (3) five tasks of a healthy church; (4) transformational system; and (5) health revitalization.

The said international extension education program administered was attended primarily by pastors/ministers including student pastors of NLAC, church elders and lay workers that came from Northern Luzon Mission and Mountain Provinces Mission of the Seventh-day Adventists.

This kind of international extension education summit has been a long time plan since the pandemic but with this one day affair opened the gateway thru the initiative of Dr. Arreola himself to mark up an association with NLAC, NLM, and MPM to be affiliated with Andrews University in Michigan, USA to offer an extension education summit project for continuing education amongst pastors of the said missions and the college.

Thus to help facilitate in the said summit, Dr. Arreola appointed respective deans for each at NLAC, Pastor Lowel Domocmat, dean of the School of Theology; and the respective ministerial secretaries of NLM, Pastor Leonell Diaz, and MPM, Pastor Valen Aplod.

Further, it will be a recurring cycle of continuing education in the future that every time Dr. Arreola will come home to visit the Philippines, he will conduct more courses designed to upgrade and enhance the leadership skills of the participants in the field of pastoral care.

Dr. VicLouis Arreola III is the current vice president for Asian Pacific Ministries of the Pacific Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists

Guest resource speaker, Dr. VicLouis Arreola III, an adjunct lecturer-professor from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, USA.

In receiving his certificate, Pastor Lowel Domocmat (2nd from left), appointed dean affiliate for NLAC. On extreme left, Pastor Marvin Diaz, NPUC Ministerial secretary & Field secretary for NDR-IEL, and on extreme right, Dr. Lawrence Domingo, NLAC president.

With their certificates on hands, participantsdelegates from NLAC mostly theology students with the resource speaker, Dr. VicLouis

Dr. Vic Arreola is a solid Filipino and a full-blood Ilocano from Sta. Maria, Ilocos Sur. He is a product of Northern Luzon Academy, Northeast Luzon Academy and Mountain View College. He had served Northern Luzon Mission before his service was called in Hawaii Conference.

Another highlight of the Summit was the challenging and inspiring virtual via Zoom message of Eng’r. Angel Marquez in Guam, USA. Eng’r. Marquez is a staunch supporter and benefactor of Northern Luzon Mission on its various programs and projects supporting as well the different missions, churches, and schools in need. He also sponsored the food provisions to the participants and attendees of this said seminar.

The program ended with a commitment of each participating institution to join in conformity with the Church Evangelism thrust in the I WILL GO with MY CHURCH initiative in the area of Collaborative Ministry which is a norm in the New Normal to work together in achieving one common goal under the NDR-IEL (Nurture Discipleship ReclamationIntegrated Evangelism Lifestyle) program of North Philippine Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists.

from page 8 NLAC Enrollment...

in California, USA. He is also an adjunct professorlecturer of Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan and La Sierra University in Riverside, California. He is the founder of the Pacific Institute of Christian Ministry which aims to equip ministers all over the world to achieve a higher level of leadership in the ministry through the continuing education program he personally developed though an in-depth study and his various experiences in the field of Church Growth.

He loves and is always happy to serve back his home country. Earlier in the middle of July 2022, he conducted the same seminary extension summit at Southern Luzon Mission in Legazpi City then at Northeast Luzon Mission in Alicia, Isabela a day before the summit was held at NLAC.

and STEM 91 for Grade 11 & 89 for Grade 12. And for the Junior High School per grade level for Grade 10-Jolly Jasper with 41 students; Grade 9-Sincere Sapphire with 39 students; Grade 8-Responsible Ruby with 36 students; and Grade 7-Dependable Diamond with 34 students.

The elementary department has a total of 128 distributed into the following for Grade VI Matiyaga has 14, Grade V Masinop has 30, Grade IV Masipag has 27, Grade III Mapagmahal has 21, Grade II Magalang has 20, and Grade I Maligaya has 16. Lastly, there are 22 preschoolers from the Kindergarten level.

Arreola III (1st row standing 8th from left)

Pastors and ministers of NLM with the president of NLAC, Dr. Lawrence Domingo (1st row standing 10th from left).

from NLM delegation

from MPM delegation

Metamorphosis from a Church School to a College

(NLA/NLAC Narrative History, an excerpt)

Prologue

In the Northern part of Luzon Island in the Philippines, the so-called Northern Luzon Academy, commonly and popularly known as NLA circa 193132, was metamorphosed into Northern Luzon Adventist College (NLAC), sixty years after in 1992 when the budding college started to offer collegiate courses in June 1990 and eventually became a senior college two years after in 1992.

The Brief Beginning

The humble beginning of Northern Luzon Adventist College was established in 1923 which started as a (Artacho) Church School with 37 pupils distributed into five grades with only one teacher, then Prof. Tomas A. Pilar. The lone school building was made of cogon and bamboo with bare earth as its flooring. Today, the site of that school building is already the Artacho National High School (formerly a Barangay High School then). In 1926 or so, the school moved to its present site and became known as Ilocos Junior Middle School offering Grades I-VII.

In 1931, the school started to offer secondary program and became known as Northern Luzon

Academy (NLA). Mrs. Cora Lugenbeal, wife of an American, Elder Edward Lugenbeal, became the first principal who served until 1939.

In 1989, it all started with a hearsay to build up a college the former Northern Luzon Academy. The idea for a college program in NLA was an initiative of its then principal for two years and later its founding president for ten years, Pastor Petronilo J. Barayuga (from 1988-2000). In February 1990, the idea became a proposal of Northern Luzon Mission Executive Committee (NLM-Ex Com) with the plan for NLA

The Artacho Church used also as school room (courtesy of Bill Hay)

Photo credit: “Beacon in the North” by LJ Domocmat

NLAC landmarks and administration building

to become a mission college. On April 11, 1992, the said proposal was endorsed to and approved by then North Philippine Union Mission (NPUM), now a Conference; and later a deliberation of that matter, as brought up by Pastor Barayuga himself, before the Far Eastern Division (FED) then in Singapore, on May 6 of the same year 1992. Thus in November 1993, a survey team was sent from the General Conference (GC) Education department to look into the program and location of the school in connection with the plan to operate a senior college. Though, the idea for a collegiate program already started in summer 1990 with the first college instructor, Pastor Nestor C. Rilloma. That was, when Bible subjects were offered to nonAdventist school graduates who were employed at NLM and NLA then to qualify themselves working in the Adventist denomination.

The college further received its accreditation to operate from the Department of Education (DepEd), the International Board of Education (IBE) of the General Conference (GC) of the Seventh-day Adventists, and the Federation of Accrediting Agencies of the Philippines (FAAP) through the Association of Christian Schools, Colleges, and Universities-Accrediting Agencies, Inc. (ACSCU-AAI). And ALL others are part of history.

The Endless Educational Service

Though mellowed with age, the school is on her toes seeking new ways and means to give the youth to whom she owes her existence a service that is higher than the biggest human thought can comprehend…through the guiding four-fold objectives of developing harmoniously the physical, intellectual, social and {emotional}, spiritual dimensions of life that will produce responsible citizens of the land and abled Christian leaders of the church and the community.

Today, it can never be thought that the former NLA, now NLAC, has grown and prospered this much in terms of enrollment, facilities, faculty and staff, programs and courses offered among others. It all started with sincere and genuine faith in God as exercised by the pioneering administrators, teachers, staffs, students, supporters, donors, and alumni local and abroad.

Through the years, NLAC has become a model institution with regards to rendering Christian Adventist education to all learners who come and go through and leave the four corners and portals of this College. As any student and who studies and who studied at NLA-C, one may say: “We enter to learn, and we depart to serve; carrying with us the true traits of being an NLAian/NLACian which is the love to serve others and fellowmen but foremost to God.”

Indeed, NLAC has been and was built foremost by faith to the Lord God Almighty and with the initiatives, efforts, and sacrifices of human leaders in the past and at current the time. That despite difficulties and crises even amidst the recently concluded global pandemic of the 21st Century, NLAC was able to survive through the continued proclamation of God’s grace and goodness to reach its Centennial Anniversary celebrations on February 26-March 4, 2023. That anyone coming along way, past and on-going or future administrators/administration, faculty and staff, pupils and students, do certainly believe in the power and divine providence of God Almighty’s sufficient grace and eminent goodness through the years to come. To God all the glory!

References:

Northern Luzon Academy. 1973. NLA: Golden Jubilee Souvenir.

Northern Luzon Adventist College. 2008. Amazed by Providence: Celebrating God’s Wondrous Ways. Artacho, Sison, Pangasinan: NLAC.

Northern Luzon Adventist College. 2012. Bound by Gratitude. Artacho, Sison, Pangasinan: NLAC.

Northern Luzon Adventist College. The Reflector, Special Issue. (June-August 2013).

Former NLA’s part of the front gate in the mid ‘80s Photograph by Alberto C. Regoso, Jr.

Interview with theCollegePresident

1. What made you accept the CALL to serve NLAC?

I was taught by my father when he was still alive to look at the needs of the church. He was a minister, and he inculcated in me the philosophy that where the need of the church is, that’s where I should serve. And so, when the Board of Trustees of NLAC sent me information that they are considering my name for the office of the president, I consulted with my wife, and we decided that we would accept if NLAC passes the call. There were several options available for us from other tertiary institutions, but NLAC was the first to pass the call to me. Calls from other institutions came later, but since I have already given my word to NLAC, I felt that it is my responsibility to honor my word.

2. What PLANS do you have for the college as whole during your term as president of NLAC? What greatest CONTRIBUTIONS you can make for NLAC in its coming Centennial Anniversary celebrations in February 2023?

I need to focus on the programs of the college during my entire term, and not just on the Centennial Celebration. The main issue that the college is facing is its need to be financially self-sustaining. Such issues will not be addressed within just a year. The Centennial Celebration is important, it is a rallying point for all faculty, staff, alumni, and students to unite as one in advancing the mission of the church through Adventist education. But the overarching need that we are facing is the capacity of the institution to be self-reliant. Currently, we have alumni organizations that are supportive of the needs of the college. These efforts by our alumni help keep the college afloat, and enable it to explore opportunities to strengthen its capabilities.

We will need to establish programs and build facilities that will enable us to serve more students, reach out and meet the needs of our constituents, and thus be better able to advance the mission of the church.

3. As college president, how do you SETTLE “professional jealousy” and/or (individual) differences between and amongst your subordinates and fellow administrators?

I do not see professional jealousy here at NLAC. I see ambitions and goals among faculty members who wish to reach certain academic achievements for them to be able to discharge their duties more effectively. Individual differences are normal in any organization, even in families, there are individual differences.

These individual differences, when properly harnessed, work to the advantage of the institution. Because each one is endowed with a different gift, with a different expertise. Using these various gifts of the faculty and staff, and making them cooperate with each other is a beauty to behold, accomplishing much more than what only one person can accomplish.

4. What significant qualities a leader must have in any organization or institution?

Number 1 is honesty. If a leader is honest in all his or her dealings or transactions, then that leader will go a long way. Number 2 is sincerity. If the leader puts the interest of the institution above self, then that leader can accomplish much. Number 3 is competence. A leader who is honest or sincere but is not competent is playing with a disastrous formula!

A leader who is competent but dishonest, would be cooking a catastrophic recipe as well. So a good leader should at least be honest, sincere, and competent. You can have all the PhDs that you want, but academic qualifications do not guarantee competence. Competence is based on professional experiences, but most of the time, it is just really plain common sense. So competence may just be striking a good balance between experience and common sense.

5. How do you implement your rules, regulations, and policies at NLAC?

We send out advisories and announcements, and we endeavor to be consistent. If there’s a rule that applies to one, then that rule applies to all. So, we have the handbook, faculty manual, and whatever policy provisions we have there, we implement them to everyone. If it applies to the faculty, it applies to the president as well, so that’s fair to everyone. In addition, we implement some measures that ensure that the rules or policies are being followed.

6. Any information and updates about the ongoing and upcoming projects of NLAC under your administration?

Our alumni and friends are very supportive of our programs. This Centennial Project, which is the “Circumferential Road,” was conceived just a few months ago, but the donations have been pouring in abundance. The loyalty of our alumni to the school is nothing short of amazing, and the leadership of the church has supported us in more ways than we can even imagine!

Notice for instance, our two Toyota Grandia vans that were acquired just a few months back. Then we purchased this month a 49-seater college bus, which will be delivered to the campus in the next three to four weeks. The previous administration has seen the completion of the Pulido Pavilion, which is worth 5 million, the New Boys’ Dormitory estimated at 11 to 13 million, the new elementary school building, that’s about 12 to 13 million, and the Senior High School Building, though unfinished, already has some functional rooms, with the entire structure estimated at 11 million so far.

All these developments were made through the alumni and our church leadership. The Mountain Provinces Mission and the Northern Luzon Mission gave substantial funding for the circumferential road. The North Philippine Union Conference helped us secure some funds for our campus development, and the Southern Asia-Pacific Division just recently poured in their financial assistance for the high school building.

All these denominational organizations, as well as our alumni and friends are on our side to help us, to support us, so we can train and prepare young people for service for the church and hasten Christ’s soon return.

7. Any final message you want to convey to your faculty and staff, students and teachers, parents and guardians, donors and sponsors including alumni local and abroad?

We are here because of the mandate of the church. The purpose of NLAC is to fulfill the “Great Commission” that Jesus Christ gave to his disciples, so we will fulfill that Commission. I have always encouraged our faculty members and our staff, and I always emphasize this to our stakeholders, that our purpose is to fulfill the “Great Commission” of Jesus Christ. That’s why we are here. That’s what we will do.

To our students, we need to inculcate these values, that we are training them because of the “Great Commission” of Jesus Christ. We want them to be individuals who will contribute to the advancement of the work of the church and the hastening of the coming of Jesus Christ. And so, that will always be at the forefront of every activity that we do, all our programs will focus on one goal, and that is to fulfill the “Great Commission” of Jesus Christ.

The college president with the interviewers

Reflector Staffers

Mary Ann Abriol, Editor-in-chief

Mary Ann is a 3rd year BSEd major in English student who’s fond of writing, reading, and learning new vocabularies. One of her dreams is to publish her own inspirational or academic book which can be helpful for young writers. She has an ample composition of poems about life.

Brian Ledda, Associate Editor

Brian is a 1st year student from STE major in Science. He used to be part of the school publication in his high school as a copy reader and headline writer and also an officer of the Red Cross Youth Council in his previous school. He already did some works such as a tutor and academic writer. He believes that a person one must use his heart in everything he/she does.

Merwin F. Dela Cruz, Associate Editor

Merwin is a first year theology student. Conversion from “counting money to counting soul” becomes his desire and motto in life. He chooses ministry over indulgences because that unlocks his new personality. Then, he was a low-esteem person but now he is confident because he serves the One who sustains life. He is now filled with new skills and ideas which become his boost to procure anything in life. He likes to collaborate and makes camaraderie with other people.

John Lester R. Diamsay, News Editor

“JL” as he was recently christened by Ma’am Jacq, the Reflector literary adviser, is a freshman theology. Actually, he is already a Licensed Professional Teacher (LET) passer major in MAPEH that makes him very passionate in coaching and officiating sports. He claims not being a brilliant writer, particularly in English, but eager to learn and be equipped for the Lord’s mission. He believes that when God calls us, He (the Lord) equips.

Glenn D. Villegas, Feature Editor

Shortly as Glenn by first name is another freshman theology student and also a second courser for theology as he is the same a finisher of the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in MAPEH. He loves reading scholarly and biblical books and articles thus his passion is sharing what he reads with others. He is a friendly person, harmless, and kind. His goal after finishing the AB-Theology course is to write a book useful for theology students and the laymen community. Furthermore, he has a passion for discipleship and training young people to be God’s servants.

Charlymagne A. Canoy, Literary Editor

He is a junior theology student. One of his dreams is to become a successful writer. He likes to compose Christian songs. And it is also his dream to be able to write and produce his own book. By joining the Reflector, he certainly believes that he will learn a lot more to help achieve his dream, especially in serving the Lord.

Edison C. Aceberos Jr., Layout Editor

He is an active digital missionary for the worldwide Adventist Church, a student of theology, and an optimistic, forthright, and sociable person. He is self-reliant, well-behaved, and most importantly, a person of strong character. He is eager to acquire new skills and talents that will be useful to him. And lastly, he believes that collaboration is the key to success, and he likes assisting others especially when asked.

John Mark Q. Yago, Opinion Editor

John Mark Yago is a sophomore theology student that is a perfect picture of a quiet gentleman that jives in one with his hand-maiden pencraft so neatly and legibly read hardly noticed to be a penmanship instead a print either in use of the typewriter or the computer.

The three beat reporters of The Reflector are commonly coming from the English Society Club (ESoC) of NLAC, all three are in their junior level. The two ladies are similarly named “Kate” as part of the second of their compound Christian names respectively for Jodi Dela Cruz and Jizelle Tadeo. The only thorn amongst the three is Mark J-xy Dela Torre.

Jaquiline P. Mendoza, Literary Adviser

She prefers to be called “Ma’am Jacq” by her students in class and also by her colleagues in school. She is simple and organized person when it comes to work for she loves to “think” and “write” which may be a reflection of her being a phlegmatic and melancholic types of personalities combined. As an introvert, she talks less outside the class. Yet in class, she talks with sense and of primary importance. She may be kind but stern as well in class. And she has a “sense of humor” too that only her English major students can testify.

Lowel J. Domocmat, Editorial Consultant

Pastor Lowel, in his young age, is very fatherly not only as a family man but also as a kind theology professor in class. He may be silent as seemingly an introvert but he is a perfect picture of the proverbial quote: “a still water that runs deep” speaking of his brilliance in the exposition and study of the Scriptures which is the Bible.

Mark J-xy C. Dela Torre Jizelle Kate D. Tadeo

Jodi Kate S. Dela Cruz

behind

the Growth and Development of NLA to NLAC

The Republic of the Philippines isn’t an exception after all in having a LADY president in the persons of former Presidents Corazon Cojuangco-Aquino and Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo respectively. Likewise at then NLA in having three lady principals and one lady president of NLAC.

First, Mrs. Cora G. Lugenbeal, wife of an American missionary Elder Edward N. Lugenbeal, was the first lady principal of Northern Luzon Academy from 1931-1939. In addition to being principal, she taught English and Music subjects and also directed the choir.

Second, Miss Nora V. Tambaoan, the second lady principal after Mrs. Lugenbeal, and also the first Filipino lady principal of NLA from 1984-1987. She also taught English and was the adviser of the school paper the “Reflector”. She also served as school librarian and assistant dean for the girls dormitory.

Third, Mrs. Angelita M. Corpuz, who was in tandem with Pastor Florendo H. Par, was the third lady principal of NLA for one school year from 1987-1988. She was an English teacher the same and dean of the girls dormitory.

Fourth, Dr. Claribel M. Dingoasen was the first Filipino lady president of Northern Luzon Adventist College from January 2013 to February 2016.

Thus the COMMONALITIES among them as all English teachers.

Happy CENTENNIAL Anniversary and Mabuhay NLA and NLAC!

Mrs. Cora G. Lugenbeal

Miss Nora V. Tambaoan

Mrs. Angelita M. Corpuz

Pastor Florendo H. Par

Dr. Claribel M. Dingoasen

From MoneyCounting to Counting Souls

by Merwin Dela Cruz, ABTheo I

As a grade and highschooler, I grew up in a family where poverty was unavoidably present. I lived in a simple house with a simple life. Sometimes I went to school but nothing on my pocket just to study. I saw the hardship of my mother daily just to survive us. So that it became my motivation to help my family especially my mother from poverty. Thus when life got even harder then burden became a sorrow. When I entered college, I took accountancy with the thought this was by means I could be able to get my family a better life. My thinking was that if I could only finish this profession I could be able to get a better job in the future and earn so much money to sustain my family’s daily needs.

As time went by, problems financially, socially, and spiritually came. I even questioned God why all these things were happening in my life—more so in my family. One time as I was seated alone in the Centennial Park of Adventist University of the Philippines, I contemplated on my life. What was the purpose of my life? What could be the meaning of life? Amongst many people, why my family and why we were experiencing this. I cried a lot and talked to God silently and privately. Why did God send me in this university thus I was seeking for an answer.

One day, during a Week of Prayer session, burdened at that , I was sitting on one of the benches. Thus the preacher tackled about purposes of life and I was enlightened. Then I came to realize that God did not send me there to become a professional accountant instead a minister in the future. So from that time onwards I pondered upon it. It did not mean that because we experienced hardship, problems, and difficulties in life, God abandoned us thus I was wrong. For God only helped me to see the real purpose and the meaning of my life.

So on that day became so very sentimental event that happened in my life. I shifted to taking up theology without hesitation leaving what I have started and move forward to my real calling, to count soul and not money. With this experienced I saw God’s providences in my life. He even changed my perspective in life. Thus from counting money as a profession to counting souls in the fold of bringing God’s precious children to His vineyard.

Merwin Dela Curz is 1st year theology student and associate editor of the Reflector. He comes from Pola, Oriental Mindoro.

During his AUP Days

From Fisheries to Fishers of Men

by Charlymagne Canoy, ABTheo III

In my high school life as a student when I was in fourth year that time, I always thought what course to take in college. My father always encouraged me to take up theology course which I obediently followed. My original plan was to go to Mountain View College to become a working student at the least to pursue my course. But unfortunately, it never happened. Instead, when I was graduated from high school, I enrolled at Mindanao State University and took up Fisheries Technology Major in Fish Processing. Actually, I didn’t like my course but eventually I finished my course on fisheries. In 2014, my uncle told me that he wanted me to be with him in Ifugao province. So my uncle brought me in Ifugao and again I studied at Ifugao State University taking up Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. But sadly, I didn’t finish the course. So I was transferred again to Nueva Vizcaya State University taking up engineering. However, I was stopped the same from my studies because of some reasons.

And finally, in 2019 during the global pandemic, I decided to be a missionary and eventually became a district layman where I finally met my wife, Miss Jedesly Casem from Busilac, Bayombong, Nueva Vizcaya. From there, we were both called to serve at Northern Luzon Adventist Hospital. So that currently, I am a layman chaplain at NLAH and at the same time a junior theology student here at NLAC. Thus my wife was also hired as nutritionist-dietician in the said hospital. Certainly, I would like to believe that I have been called from the School of Fisheries to become fishers of men in God’s fold. As what Matthew 28: 19 & 20 says: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you always(s), even unto the end of the world. Amen.”

Charlymagne Canoy is junior in theology and literary editor of the Reflector. He comes from Naawan, Misamis Oriental.

Charles and his wife Jedesly

Charles graduation at MSU in 2013

Light: A Reflector of God’s Beauty

by Brian Ledda, BSED I Science

Enter a dark room. Can you see the things inside? When you open the light bulb inside the room, you will see all the things inside the room. How is this possible? Do you know what light is, and where it comes from? This article further explains the different things that may happen when light hits an object and the significance of light on human activities associated with the significance of God in our daily lives.

The light that your eyes react to is called the visible light. Light is a form of energy and travels in wave form. It travels in space at the speed of 300,000,000 meters per second. Light comes from different sources which is either natural like the sun which is the major source of light, or the artificial sources of light like light bulb. Visible light travels into a straight path through space. When light hits an object, three things may happen: light may be transmitted, reflected or absorbed. When you put an object inside a clear glass you will see the object. Why does it happen? It is because light passes directly and easily through the glass. This is what we called transmission of light. Why do you see cars, books, and people do not emit their own light? These objects must reflect light in order to be seen. These objects reflect the light from their sources of light. Like a ball that bounces off a wall, light bounces when it hits another object. This is what we called the reflection of light. The pencil inside the clear glass with water appears bent or broken. Why? Light bends, or refracts, when it travels from one medium to another. As light passes through different media it changes speed. The change in speed results in the bending of light in the process called refraction. White light is consisting of different colours such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. But why do we only see a particular colour in an object? When light strikes an object, some of the colours are absorbed while some are reflected. The reflected colour is the colour of the object that we see.

So do you think life would be possible without light? Sunlight helps plant manufacture food, the source of energy for both humans and animals. It has also beneficial effects like killing bad bacteria and skin fungus, builds immune system, and even cures depression. Light also plays a role in regulating our body’s biological clock, which controls sleep and behavioural patterns. Light allows us to see the beauty of God’s creation.

In conclusion, light reflects the beauty of our Creator. God is significant to us in the same way that light is to our daily existence. Without God we cannot survive on our own. We are dependent on Him. Our food, energy, breath, and everything that we have come from Him. Life would not be possible without our Creator.

Brian Ledda is freshman BSEd Science student and is also associate editor of the Reflector. He hails from Rosales, Pangasinan

by John Mark Q. Yago, ABTheo II

Reaching out to the unreachable is the primary goal, purpose, and objective of the Ministerial Association outreach programs that Northern Luzon Adventist College students participate in every Sabbath afternoon. Students from a wide variety of departments formed a collaborative effort to attain the objective.

Outreach Program was organized with the purpose of instructing students in various outreach activities and assisting them in understanding the significance of making a difference in people’s lives, as this will be their sole mission as soon as they step foot outside the college gates and into the mission field. In addition to this, the activities give the young ministers the opportunity to experience the fulfillment that comes from serving God. As they apply it in service, this will also assist them in gaining a better understanding of and growth in the abilities that God has given them. In conclusion, the primary goal was to disseminate information about the Advent season. Within the context of a one-on-one conversation, Ministerial Association adviser Pastor Erwin Agdeppa articulated these four guiding concepts.

The typical actions consist of donating books and water and providing a prayer to the community. However, this time students go on an interview, a “kamustahan,” about the people’s spiritual lives and are urged to study the words of God through Bible studies. They were questioned on a variety of topics, including “If you are given the opportunity to learn about the truth, do you believe that it is necessary for you to share it with others?” and the majority of those who responded provided a positive verdict.

The answers come from a variety of different backgrounds, and many of them mentioned that our faith is something that is very personal and cannot be evaluated based on the religious group to which one belongs.

Reaching out to those who are inaccessible is the primary objective of the MA Outreach program. We must understand their requirements, not only in terms of health but also in terms of spirituality, according to what the president of the Ministerial Association, Jesse Noel Bruan Catungal, claimed.

Throughout the entirety of the program, the objective was successfully completed, and the institution and its students were inspired to maintain their efforts to continue reaching out to others, serving the community, dispersing hope, and creating an impact.

John Mark Q. Yago is sophomore theology student and opinion editor of the Reflector. He comes from Caloocan City.

Discover What a VPN Can Do For You!

Staying safe on the internet has a substantial effect on users, regardless of age and status. This should be prioritized now because scammers’ activities are prevalent in this era. In just one click or visit to a different website, hackers can get the personal information that should remain private. Hence, using a Virtual Private Network or shortly known as VPN must be a trend today. Below are the definitions and ways on how to choose and use a VPN.

What is a VPN?

A virtual private network, or VPN, is a safe network that lets you connect privately to a public network, like the internet. Essentially, it is a tunnel between two points that encrypts all the data that passes through it. This makes it much more difficult for anyone to intercept or access the data that is being transmitted. It also helps to hide your IP address, meaning that your location and identity are kept private.

Benefits of Using a VPN

The main reason to use a VPN is that it gives you more security and privacy. By using a VPN, your data is kept safe from anyone trying to intercept it, and your identity and location are kept private. In addition, using a VPN can also help to bypass any georestrictions that may be in place. This means that you can access content from other countries, even if it is not available in your current location.

Different Types of VPNs

There are several different types of VPNs available, and each one offers different benefits. Some of the most common types are:

1. Free VPNs: These are typically the most basic types of VPNs and may not offer the same level of security and privacy as paid options.

2. Dedicated VPNs: These are usually more secure and private than free VPNs, as they are dedicated to a single user. They are typically more expensive than free options, but offer more features.

3. Shared VPNs: These are more cost-effective than dedicated VPNs and offer some of the same benefits. However, they may not be as secure or private as dedicated options.

4. Paid VPNs: These are the most secure and private options, but also the most expensive.

Setting Up a VPN

Setting up a VPN is relatively easy and can be done in just a few steps. First, you need to choose a VPN provider and sign up for their service. You will then need to download and install the software on your device. Once the software is installed, you can choose a server and connect to it. Finally, you can start using the VPN and enjoy the added security and privacy it provides.

How to Choose the Right VPN.

Choosing the right VPN can be a bit tricky, as there are many different factors to consider. The main things you should look at include security and privacy, cost, reliability, speed, and customer support. When comparing different VPNs, make sure to read reviews to get an idea of how they perform.

Conclusion

If you’re looking to protect your data and keep your identity and location private, be sure to consider using a VPN. It is a good tool to guard one’s identity and personal data. It should be analyzed properly to gain the benefits that it can give to people. The wide use of technology and the internet gives people both the problem and the solution itself.

Arvin S. Ayson is junior Information Technology student and president of the School of Computing. He comes from Olongapo city.

Pursuing your dreams

by Arnulfo N. Castillo, PhD

Success in any line does not come by accident. It comes through painstaking, hard, and perspiring work. Be this a study, career pursuit, love life, marriage, or family life. I offer the young some pointers to remember.

First, determine your goal. What do you want to achieve? Degrees with Latin honours, certificates, trophies, medals? Can you reach them? What makes you think you can do that? There are different ways of achieving that and by what means. Do you have the intelligence to succeed? This is a gift by genetic inheritance.

If you are a college student, go back to your basic education performance. What had been your academic records? They may indicate your possibilities. That should have established your potential as a Latin honor awardee or even less than that but an acceptable one for you. For example, if you have been consistently an achiever by way of your general average every end of the school year then you should not perform less than that in college but can even go beyond that. You are performing below par if you suddenly go down in college. Go over your adaptation mechanisms. Make the necessary adjustments in your reading, review, and daily chores schedules.

Second, take God as your counselor and source of strength. Commit your ways unto the Lord and He shall bring it to pass (Proverbs 16: 3). Commit your plans to the Lord in prayer and as you work and study. Keep praying. Have a never surrender spirit by saturating your dream with trust and confidence in the Lord.

Third, develop your character. This is developed. This can include perseverance, diligence, industry, determination and other virtues. Most often times, money is the problem for many students. Don’t fear the unknown, the uncharted future. Take a positive posture about it. Find work and earn something for your schooling. Work your way and move up the social ladder. Many intelligent don’t succeed because they failed to develop the character needed for success.

Fourth, roll your plan. This is necessary if along the way you suffer reverses like delays and loss of financial sponsor. To roll plans is to make adjustments in a schedule of attainment. If you cannot attain your goal this year, aim to do it next year as the case may be.

May these thoughts guide those who are willing to learn and listen. God BLESS everyone.

Dr. Arnulfo N. Castillo is dean of the School of Arts & Sciences and is a theology professor in the college.

What Makes English an ‘Intellectualized Language’?

by Mary Ann Abriol, BSEd III English

English has been the universal language for years. It was being taught to students across the globe. English language originated from Great Britain and continued to have a place in other countries as one of their spoken or written languages. The English language also plays a special and crucial role in education. It makes the lesson either easier or sometimes harder to understand depending upon one’s perspective.

Some are afraid to study the said language while others have the talent and interest to be creative in the study either in speaking or writing. For example, most Filipinos are known to be good at speaking the English language. Thus, they can easily communicate with other foreign nationals. On the other hand, some Filipinos make fun of their English skills and it makes them commit grammatical errors because they don’t take it seriously.

The English language deserves a spot in the academic world. People study English subject to know the proper way of using the language. It also consists of the history of the said subject to conceptualize things needed to fully comprehend the subject and its essence. Thus, it is imperative to use the English language in English subjects because it is like the subject’s heart and soul. Science subject also needs the English language for the learners to quickly connect or integrate principles, theories, and actions. Materials for experimentation and lessons are often stated in the English

language. It helps dictate the action a scientist or science major student should do or perform. Mathematics is even harder to understand if it is taught in another language. Some terminologies cannot be expressed in other languages. The engineering and accounting students today would be more stressed out and wasted. Social science is the least core subject which especially needs English as a mode of instruction since other languages can not explain the happenings in society and politics.

English is very vital in education and all aspects of life. It makes relationships be built in a better and easier way. Many individuals can benefit from using the English language. Although it is undeniable that the usage of English has disadvantages, still, people can find ways to alter those cons. English, in general, as being spoken and written by the majority of people all over the globe, is an “intellectualized language” that is important to people’s lives. It creates life and connection. It mends wounds and heals the heartbroken. It answers a lot of questions. It gives light into this dark world. Lastly, it unites people in many situations, instances, and predicaments.

Mary Ann Abriol is junior English major student and is also editor-in-chief of the Reflector. She hails from Caloocan city.

Helping others while struggling is an opportunity to develop a dependency on God. The Holy Bible teaches us many things to ponder upon, like stories of great men of God.

Prophet Elijah was one of the most influential prophets in the Bible. He didn’t have a particular profession; In fact, he was unemployed and homeless, yet he was tremendously used to prove the power of the living God. Elijah experienced what it was like to be scared to death and run for his life. He was so depressed, burned out, and frightened that he said he had enough; he’s done and troubled. He was one of the significant people in the Bible who asked to die. “It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life” (1 Kings 19:4)

Pray to Begin Anew

by Norlie John C. Turqueza, ABTheo III

Truly, when we are getting chased by the grace of God, all we can do is humble ourselves before Him as we begin a new sense of purpose in our Christian walk. These experiences led me to be in this higher calling to pursue theology at NLAC.

Have you ever felt the same? Have you ever been depressed and burned out at the weakest point of your life that you wanted to just crawl into your bed to feel the pain and pray that everything around you will go away? Sometimes, when we lack energy or hope to continue our journey, we need to ask ourselves how connected we are to the LORD.

Depressed people usually can’t be talked out of their gloom. But what does sometimes help is a sense of purpose, and that’s what God provided to Elijah- He gave him new tasks to perform, including connecting with Elisha, who would be his successor. God won’t let go of you either.

During my college years at NELAC, I learned a lot of things regarding how to be involved in God’s work. I became a literature evangelist and joined Voice of Youth. I was appointed as a student church elder for four consecutive years and experienced being a working student. On becoming a student elder, I realized the importance of our great calling/ commission as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

Allow me to me recognize the influence of my late grandmother, Purification “Lola Puring” V. Turqueza. She had a significant impact in my life when my mother passed away when I was in my second year of college. She stayed with us for two years and gave me a reason to become a living testimony as a student elder despite our socioeconomic status.

I faced many challenges and struggles in my pursuit to becoming a teacher because of poor choices and decisions that led me to self-pity. I even attempted to end my life. But God did not allow that to happen. I could still hear His sweet small voice, saying, “You should continue your journey because where I lead, I will provide.” Thank God for His rich grace and mercy.

God uses ordinary people to accomplish His purposes and where He leads we follow. He is also faithful to His promises. Despite our socioeconomic status, He used kind and compassionate people to put us in a place where He could use us for His great cause. I remember when I told myself that I would do God’s will after He gave me a second chance to begin anew. No matter what happened in my life, there was no turning back. God directed me to people who have big hearts to help the needy like me. I especially thank the NELAC family who gave me the reason to move forward.

When my aunt Susan, an elementary teacher in Adventist School, Alicia Campus, offered a helping hand, asking me if I wanted to stay in their house. I immediately said, “yes.”

As I stayed with her for six months, the school offered me an opportunity to work at the food factory. Then as the days went by, a new door of opportunity opened again for me and my batchmate, Gerald, invited and encouraged me to take AB Theology course at NLAC. God also used Mr. and Mrs. Lito Sanchez and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ignacio, who have big hearts in ministry. Remember that God has a million ways to put us on the right track- heavenward.

Indeed, pray to begin anew. God will provide us an opportunity to see our purpose.

Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24

Norlie John C. Turqueza is junior theology student and president of School of Theology. He hails from Alicia, Isabela

NLAC shows no signs of weakness despite Global Pandemic

by Edison Aceberos Jr., ABTheo I

Who would have thought that this epidemic would make a big difference in how Northern Luzon Adventist College works with its students while still keeping high academic standards? In March 2020, the Philippines started to close establishments and deal with the effects of COVID-19. This resulted in the shutting down of schools, colleges, and universities, as well as a shift away from traditional classroom settings and thus towards online education. As a result of a requirement imposed by the government, NLAC made the switch to distance learning through virtual classes.

During this hard time in the history of education in the current century, NLAC had to deal with many problems. Implementing online education when instructors lacked expertise with it, learning how to evaluate and locate a credible assessment from a distance, educating students who did not have devices or internet connections, and creating spiritual programs that will uplift the students’ faith amidst the pandemic.

Despite the problems that come up, NLAC is always changing and using different digital platforms to promote quality Adventist education. Ellen White wrote, “If you are called to be a teacher, you are called to be a learner also. If you take upon yourself the sacred responsibility of teaching others, you take upon yourself the duty of becoming master of every subject you seek to teach.”1 So, even though there is a global pandemic going on right now, we have lots of options because technology and digital communication have come a long way. Educators and teachers are always seeking new educational opportunities to better serve their students.

NLAC has been preparing students for life since its humble beginnings as Artacho Church School in 1923, then as Northern Luzon Academy in 1931, and eventually, Northern Luzon Adventist College, a full senior college, in 1992. Whoever the leader was or what changes were implemented, one thing remained constant: the need to preach the main goal of the institution, which is the “great gospel commission” given to us by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Lastly, NLAC also had a big role to play in Northern Luzon before and after the pandemic. Over the years, NLAC has made sure that students,

teachers, and administrators have continued to grow professionally and spiritually. As time passes, the institution learns to adapt to the changes brought about by the New Normal. It will move forward with the knowledge that God is in charge of history, and by God’s grace, we will prevail because He says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10, ESV).

Christ will soon return, and we shall have the opportunity to study forever with the true Teacher at the Eternal School, where “every power will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached, the highest ambitions realized. And still there will arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects to call forth the powers of body and mind and soul.”2 NLAC will continue to promote this kind of development until its 100th year Foundation Anniversary in 2023 and on until Christ’s Second Advent. Long live NLAC!

1 Ellen G. White, Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students (Mountain View, California: Pacific Press, 1913), 199.

2 Ellen G. White, Education (Mountain View, California: Pacific Press, 1903), 307.

Edison C. Aceberos Jr. is freshman theology student and layout editor of the Reflector. He comes from Pasig City.