As members of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines and duly elected officers and members of the United Metropolis Conference Council, we express our serious concern regarding the recent developments surrounding proposals to dismiss the impeachment case against Vice-President Sara Z. Duterte, even in the absence of constitutionally mandated proceedings. As a faith community, we unite our voices in the call to move forward with the impeachment trial, allowing the truth to come forth and ensuring that a fair and appropriate penalty is imposed. The Latin phrase Vox populi, vox dei implicitly tells us that the will of the people has divine or ultimate power. Let the impeachment proceedings begin without any further delay. We echo the words of the Lord to Samuel in 1 Samuel 8:6-7, “Obey the voice of the people in all that they say to you…” 

https://www.uccpchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Metropolis-Statement-on-Impeachment-of-VP-Sara-Duterte-ver-2.pdf

Credit to JD (watercolor painting)
The life and legacy of a beloved co-servant in the Lord, Dr. T. Valentino Sitoy, Jr., former Dean of the Divinity School at Silliman University, are being honored as we stand in kinship and compassion, our hearts heavy with sadness but firmly grounded in hope.

During the years that he spent with us, Dr. Bill Sitoy, as he is commonly called, dedicated himself faithfully, humbly, and wholeheartedly to the work of our Lord. Among his most significant contributions to the church are the two-volume history books that he wrote: “Several Springs, One Stream” United Church of Christ in the Philippines, Volumes I & II (1898-1948) His steadfast dedication to the gospel, empathy for others, and uplifting attitude in service have made a lasting impact on our hearts and in our ministry.
We mourn his passing with sorrow, yet we remain hopeful and steadfast in our beliefs. We are assured that Dr. Sitoy has received the praise, “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” Matthew 25:21
Even though he is no longer physically present, we are nevertheless inspired by his legacy of love, faith, and service. We continue to pray together as a family in Christ, find solace in God’s promises, and are dedicated to continuing the work we once shared together.
We extend our heartfelt condolences and solid support to his family and loved ones during this difficult time. May the divine source of comfort envelop you in a peace that passes all understanding.
Rest well, faithful servant, until we meet again in glory.

https://www.uccpchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/UCCP-Council-of-Bishop-and-General-Assembly-Solidarity-Tribute-for-the-passing-of-Dr.-T.-Valentino-Sitoy-Jr..pdf

The United Church of Christ in the Philippines praises the God of justice and righteousness for blessing the Church with yet another victory through the recent acquittal of Rev. Nathaniel “Dodo” Vallente of Bohol Conference. We believe this triumph was made possible through the persistent cries and collective action of peace and justice advocates who have remained steadfast in their pursuit of truth and freedom.

After languishing in prison for three years and four months, Rev. Dodo endured the unimaginable—falsely accused and unjustly imprisoned on trumped-up charges of illegal possession of explosives. His only “crime” was answering the prophetic call to minister to the poor and to stand boldly alongside the oppressed and victims of injustice. His unwavering commitment to truth and compassion made him a target, yet he remained steadfast in his faith and mission. We can scarcely begin to fathom the pain, isolation, and emotional toll this ordeal inflicted—not only on Rev. Dodo himself, but also on his family, his congregation, and the wider community that looked to him for spiritual leadership. The suffering they endured in silence speaks volumes about the cost of prophetic witness in the face of systemic injustice.

https://www.uccpchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Council-of-Bishops-Statement-on-the-Acquittal-of-Rev.-Nathaniel-Dodo-Vallente-v3.pdf

Grace and peace to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
With hearts full of thankfulness, not only to the gracious God, who is always just and faithful, but also to all of our constituents who have accompanied us on this challenging journey with their prayers, encouragement, and unshakable support.
As many of you are aware of, the Mandaluyong RTC court has issued an acquittal ruling in the perjury case filed against us. We accept this verdict with humility and reverence, knowing that justice belongs to God and that truth always prevails in His time.
Throughout this process, we relied upon the words of Psalm 37:6: “He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, your justice like the noonday sun.” It has been a time of trial, introspection, and increased faith in the Lord’s providence. Our hope has never been in legal systems, but rather in the One who rules over heaven and earth.
We want to emphasize that our integrity and purpose remain unfading. We harbor no resentment in our hearts toward anyone and hope that this chapter serves as a testament to God’s grace, not only for us but also for others who are going through challenging times.
As we carry on with our journey as your church leaders, we do so with a fresh sense of dedication and a greater understanding of the importance of justice, mercy, and compassion.
Let’s keep walking in love, supporting each other with grace, and trusting in the fair judgment of our God.
With all humility and thanksgiving,
PIO D. BACONGA
GRACE A. TY
BISHOP REUEL NORMAN O. MARIGZA
LAURO C. MILLAN
JOVITO I. GANADEN
BISHOP MELZAR D. LABUNTOG
BISHOP HAMUEL G. TEQUIS
BISHOP JAIME R. MORILES
BISHOP ELORDE M. SAMBAT
BISHOP JOEL E. TENDERO
BISHOP EMERGENCIO D. PADILLO (deceased)
https://www.uccpchurch.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/250425-Justice-like-a-noonday-sun.pdf

UCCP National Office 877 EDSA, West Triangle Quezon City 1104
(632) 8 426 1729 | 8 426 3790 | 8 426 9157
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