The SULADS ministry received recognition during the General Conference (GC) Annual Council of the Seventh-day Adventist Church on October 16, 2024, for its contribution to mission work among marginalized communities in the Philippines. Roger Caderma, the president of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), presented the ministry's inspiring work to leaders of the global church, showcasing its transformative effects on long-ignored or conflict-affected communities.

Since its inception in 1969, SULADS (Socio-economic Uplift, Literacy, Anthropological, and Developmental Services), a special ministry of the Adventist Church in the South Philippines, has demonstrated a deep commitment to indigenous peoples, providing free healthcare, education, agricultural training, livelihood projects, and other developmental services. Over the years, the ministry has embodied love in action—giving love to families, children, education, community development, and the unreached. SULADS is a testament to how Adventist mission extends beyond spiritual outreach to practical service that improves lives holistically. SULADS was founded as a grassroots mission-driven initiative and has grown into a key ministry in the South Philippines and other remote regions.

One of the ministry's defining strengths is its partnership with local government units (LGUs). These collaborations enable SULADS to reach remote areas and marginalized communities that would otherwise be inaccessible. In conflict-affected zones, these partnerships provide the logistical support and security necessary for volunteers to carry out their mission. Caderma emphasized the importance of these partnerships during his presentation, highlighting how they have allowed the ministry to expand its reach and make a lasting difference.

SULADS volunteers, many of them young people, demonstrate extraordinary dedication as they live and work in challenging environments. Despite the risks, they serve as teachers, healthcare providers, and spiritual mentors, transforming lives through education, health initiatives, and the love of Jesus Christ. Often traveling by foot, horseback, or boat to isolated areas, they provide essential services to communities with limited access, driven by a deep commitment to love and service.

During the Annual Council, Caderma commended the volunteers for their unwavering commitment to the Adventist mission. He noted that many of these young people have chosen to dedicate their lives to this work despite the personal hardships, relying on their faith and sense of purpose to guide them.

SULADS' holistic approach to mission work—addressing physical, emotional, and spiritual needs—has led to significant improvements in literacy, community health, and spiritual growth. The ministry’s impact is a powerful testimony of the Adventist Church’s mission to reach the unreached and bring hope to forgotten and suffering communities.

The recognition of SULADS during the GC Annual Council not only brings greater visibility to their life-changing work but also inspires the global church to engage in similar mission efforts. As Caderma shared, the story of SULADS is a shining example of how faith, dedication, and partnerships can create lasting change in communities stricken by poverty, conflict, and marginalization.

About SULADS

SULADS, Incorporated is a non-governmental and nonprofit charitable educational institution based in the Philippines, dedicated to educating and uplifting Indigenous communities. The name "SULADS" comes from the Manobo term “sulad,” meaning brother or sister.

Since its founding in 1969, SULADS has provided a range of services to indigenous people groups. With a mission centered on love for families, children, education, and the unreached, SULADS continues to demonstrate "love in action" through its transformative work.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division website.