AWR Manila Launches on Radio Channel

Adventist World Radio has remained unwavering in its mission to bring the message of hope to the world's unreached communities in their mother tongues.

May 1, 2024

Philippines

Melo Anadem Adap-Ong, with ANN Staff

Gathering in unity, leaders from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, North Philippine Union Conference, Adventist World Radio, and Blockbuster Broadcasting System, Inc. come together in celebration, marking the inaugural broadcast of AWR Manila on 89.1 FM.

[Photo courtesy of SSD Communication Department]

Adventist World Radio (AWR) Manila celebrated its inauguration ceremony on April 24, 2024, to officially launch its broadcast on DWAV 89.1 FM. AWR has remained unwavering in its mission to bring the message of hope to the world's unreached communities in their mother tongues. This pivotal achievement heralds new avenues to broadcast the message of hope and healing through the airwaves.

Since 2018, AWR Manila has been in search of a suitable radio station to serve as its broadcasting platform. After meeting with various radio stations, they entered into a management agreement with Blockbuster Broadcasting System, Inc. (BBSI). This venture, which took over a year to finalize, culminated in a contract signing on March 10, 2024.

Rabi Velasco, NPUC treasurer, described the endeavor as “purely providential,” adding, “I believe God is certainly at work in mysterious and miraculous ways at His appointed time.”

150 Adventist Radio Missionaries (ARM) on motorcycles, accompanied by a convoy of 40 vehicles, kick off the inauguration ceremony in Pasay City, weaving through congested streets to raise awareness of AWR. They distribute hundreds of Great Controversy books featuring exclusive AWR covers, engaging the public with the message of hope.

Elder Duane McKey, AWR president from the world church, and his wife, Cathy, graced the event with their presence. It was Duane’s determination to secure a radio station that spurred the NPUC to action. In his address, he expressed, “It is just amazing what God has in store for AWR. God is going to do something special with 89.1 FM.” He also invited church members to actively engage in the radio ministry, stating the need for more broadcasters. “We always need more broadcasters. There’s a spot for you on the radio.” He reminded the audience, “All our broadcast should be focused on reaching people for Jesus so this work can be finished, and we can get off of this old bowl of mud and go home. That is why we do what we do.” McKey was the key figure in making the venture a reality.

Officers and representatives from sister unions in the Philippines, the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, the regional office of the Adventist Church in Asia under the leadership of President Pastor Roger Caderma, as well as officers and directors from missions, conferences, healthcare, and educational institutions in NPUC territory, were also present.

The mayor of Pasay City, Honorable Mayor Imelda-Emi Calixto-Rubiano, a staunch supporter of the Adventist Church in the area, also graced the gathering and offered words of encouragement. Recognizing the power of God’s Word, she expressed, “There is nothing more heartfelt, genuine, and uplifting than the Words of the Savior,” and conveyed her commitment to AWR, adding, “From today and the years to come, we will be in support of you and your endeavors in action, faith, and on air.” Mayor Emi concluded her speech with a warm offer of assistance, saying, “If there’s anything that I can be of assistance with, even from womb to tomb, please don’t hesitate to visit me or call me, and I will gladly assist you the best way I can.”

Key moments of the inauguration featured the grand reveal of the AWR signage adorning the façade of NPUC, alongside the ceremonial ribbon-cutting marking the inauguration of the newly renovated studio situated on the 3rd floor of NPUC headquarters.

AWR Manila’s launch on DWAV 89.1 FM is a significant breakthrough in the development of the radio ministry in Mega Manila, with the potential to reach more than 14 million of its residents. AWR Manila has found its new home and broadcasting platform to share gospel truths, uplifting music, and various topics on health, stewardship, family, and relationships, with the goal of leading individuals into a fruitful and meaningful life with Jesus. As the tagline suggests, AWR 89.1 FM is committed to “Transmitting Truth, Transforming Lives.”

This article was provided by the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.