Flags Magazine Volume 9 No 1

The Official AIIAS Magazine March 2014FlagsAn Adventist Graduate School and Seminary wwwV.aoiilaus.medue 9| ,FNlagus m1 ber1 1

CONTENTS Flags, March 2014 – Volume 9, Number 1Editorial 3Academic 4 Flags EDITORIAL BOARD 5Accreditation Affirms Educational Excellence 6 Editor 7 Aimee TapeceriaAIIAS Online Celebrates 10th Anniversary 7 Content Editor14th International Graduate School Conference 8 Michael Campbell 9Christian Ethics in the XXI Century 10 Copy Editor Ellen CompuestoNews 11 Layout and Design EditorNew Personnel 12 Mirriam Pamula 14Learning and Teaching Beyond AIIAS Committee Members 15 Paoring Ragui, Safary Wa-Mbaleka,Department of Education Goes to Mongolia 16 Sunia Fukofuka, James Park, Jasmine Mawii, Stephen Guptill, Bruce SumendapWeight Management and Health Improvement 17 18 AIIAS EXECUTIVE OFFICERSStrengthening Family Relationship Through Healthy 19 PresidentLife Practices Stephen Guptill, EdD 20Feature 21 Vice President for Academic Dolf Oberholster, PhDChristmas in Tacloban 22 23 Vice President for FinanceFinding Gigantes Island German Lust, CPASpiritual Life Vice President for Student Services and Public RelationsTanging Pag-asa, A Life-Changing Seminar Paoring Ragui, DPS“I Do Believe, Help My Unbelief ” Dean of the Graduate School William Green, PhDActivities Dean of the SeminaryLove in Any Language Richard Sabuin, PhDFriendship, Teamwork, and Fun Flags is the semi-annual international magazine for alumni and friends of the Adventist InternationalAlumni Institute of Advanced Studies (AIIAS), a graduate- level educational institution of the GeneralJelome: Grace Under Pressure Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.Advancement The AIIAS Advantage Inauguration of Tower O Announcements Student Services: The Challenges of ‘Shaping Lives’ Dates to Remember ABOUT THE COVER Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies The residents of Brgy. 89, Tacloban City Lalaan 1, Silang, Cavite 4118 Philippines with the AIIAS Team after the general distribution of relief goods. Through the Phone +63 (46) 414-4300 generosity of Gary Stanhister of Giving Children Hope Foundation, the residents Fax +63 (46) 414-4301 were able to celebrate Christmas with smiles in spite of the tragedy that struck Email [email protected] them. Visit our website: www.aiias.edu Cover Design by Mirriam Pamula Cover Photos by Aimee Tapeceria www.facebook.com/aiias ISSN 1908-16932 Flags | March 2014

EditorialWe were warned. RESPONDING TO HAIYAN’S AFTERMATH BY AIMEE TAPECERIAWe were told to brace ourselves. Just as things were calming reports were difficult becauseWe knew that the enemy was a down from all of these activities, basic communication broke super typhoon unlike anything news came that a storm was down. While we went to bed that we’ve ever experienced. forming in the middle of the evening with a sense of relief Pacific Ocean and it was headed that we had avoided the worstThe government claimed that the towards us. Meteorologists gave of the storm, the next morning Philippines was prepared. warnings four days in advance images of Tacloban trickled in that this potentially could be the the news media. As each dayWe all thought it would just blow strongest typhoon to ever hit passed, the shocking images over. the Philippines. stunned everyone.We thought life would go on Forecast showed that the Yet there is hope. The normally after. brunt of typhoon Haiyan would theme of “Change, Chaos, hit Central Philippines, but and Resilience: Thriving in aLittle did we know that this storm typhoons are unpredictable Turbulent World” from the was special. so AIIAS residents were not 14th International Graduate taking any chances. Emergency School Conference perhapsLittle did we know that super preparations were made. Friends best describes how members typhoon Haiyan would change our both far and near kept vigil of the AIIAS family responded lives forever. through prayer as we braced for to the tragedy. We saw it as the arrival of the monster storm. an opportunity to put ourAs the storm approached, education to use during the AIIAS was ending the The morning of November 8 aftermath of Haiyan. O Academic Festival, a nine- dawned with news reports of theday long series of events from destruction wrought by the 315October 25 to November 2, 2013. kph (195 mph) winds. Live newsThis featured the Health FestivalWeekend, 14th InternationalGraduate School Conference,10th Anniversary Celebrationof AIIAS Online, AlumniHomecoming Banquet, and 16thTheological Seminary Forum. AIMEE TAPECERIA is the Assistant for Institutional Writing. She functions as the editor of Flags Magazine and webmaster of the AIIAS website. www.aiias.edu | Flags 3

AcademicACCREDITATION AFFIRMS a level attained by only a selectEDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE few graduate programs in this country. BY DOLF OBERHOLSTER This implies that AIIAS is now regarded as “a well-established In preparation for theD uring 2013, the Adventist and mature institution [that] accreditation teams the Accrediting Association has developed a strong record administration, faculty, and (AAA) granted AIIAS of delivering quality and some staff and studentsits fourth consecutive five- focused Seventh-day Adventist conducted a thorough self-year accreditation for the education over a long period study of its programs andinstitution and all its programs. of time” (AAA Accreditation services. Such analysisSubsequently the AAA Board, in Handbook 2012, p. 1-11). Other refines institutional goals andits October meeting, approved notable academic achievements programs.“that AIIAS be considered a from this past year includeForm B institution for future the Graduate School programs For 2014, the SeminaryAAA accreditation visits” (AAA achieving a higher level of anticipates a visit from ATESEA2minutes October 9, 2013). PAASCU1 accreditation, Level III, during which they hope that all AIIAS Theological Seminary AIIAS Campus degree programs will receive accreditation. Up to this point, ATESEA has only granted accreditation to a limited range of programs (at AIIAS that include the MDiv program) but with adjustments during 2013 we anticipate that all the AIIAS Seminary programs will receive accreditation by ATESEA. The members of the AIIAS family praise God for these affirmations as recognition of the high level of academic excellence that assists the institution in training the most highly qualified persons for service to the glory of God and the fulfillment of the mission of the Church. O DOLF OBERHOLSTER is the Vice President 1 PAASCU is the Philippine Accrediting 2 ATESEA is the Association for Theological for Academic Administration and a Association of Schools, Colleges, and Education in South East Asia. It is a full professor in Education Department. Universities. It is a full member of the Asia member of the World Conference of Pacific Quality Network (APQN) and of the Associations of Theological Institutions4 Flags | March 2014 International Network of Quality Assurance (WOCATI) Agencies in Higher Education (INQAAHE)

AcademicT he AIIAS Online (formerly AIIAS ONLINE CELEBRATES called Division of Online 10TH ANNIVERSARY BY BRUCE SUMENDAP Learning) celebrated its10th Anniversary last October PHOTO CREDIT: BRUCE SUMENDAP30, 2013, by hosting a programshowcasing activities that honor Administrators present gift of appreciation to Dr. John Wesley Taylor V.the past and look toward thefuture of E-Learning. that one of the challenges government officials, diplomats, in the early stages of the and United Nations personnel AIIAS President Dr. Stephen Division of Online Learning was among its students.Guptill, Southern Asia-Pacific encouraging faculty to teachDivision Associate Education online without face-to-face “AIIAS is a pioneer in thisDirector Dr. Canadian Panjaitan, interaction. area in the Philippines, if notand Silang Educators Club internationally, and certainlyPresident Nick Valdez, addressed “It was a challenge to do among Adventist institutionsthe students, faculty, alumni, something that has never been around the world,” says Dr.and seminar participants during done before,” says Dr. Casimiro. Guptill. He added, “So, todaythe occasion which was held at is the time for celebration,the Amphitheater. Testimonial AIIAS Online is an important praising God and also a timevideos were shown of former initiative to provide higher for looking back and renewingonline students who highlighted education via the internet. The our vision of offering qualityhow their education has greatly Master in Public Health was the Christian Education.” Oimpacted their present work and first fully online AIIAS programresponsibilities. that opened on March 6, 2003. BRUCE SUMENDAP is the Public Relations The Seminary, Education, and Director of AIIAS. He is in-charge of the In his keynote address, Dr. Business departments followed Advancement and Recruitment Office.John Wesley Taylor V, former soon afterward. EnrollmentAIIAS faculty who currently grew from 30 (in 2003) up toserves as the Associate Director 400 students (in 2013) withof Education of the AdventistWorld Church, spent timereminiscing on how AIIAS Onlineprograms started by showingthe original proposal, committeeactions, and key issues inopening the program. “Thinking out of the boxis not enough, sometimes weneed to be as far away from thebox as possible,” says Dr. Taylorspeaking metaphorically on thechallenges of developing andimplementing online programs. Dr. Leni Casimiro, presentdirector of AIIAS Online, said www.aiias.edu | Flags 5

Academic14TH INTERNATIONAL GRADUATESCHOOL CONFERENCE BY MAY ANN BARAGONA“ S trap on your helmet and paddle like crazy!” from Andrews University PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN was an apt description presented on “Ipad vs. Ilearn:given to 194 attendees from 21 New Pedagogical Approaches to Dr. Warren Shipton, Associate Professoracademic institutions during Communication Education.” Her of the Faculty of Science in Asia-Pacificthe 14th AIIAS International paper focused on how modern International University speaks to theGraduate School Conference technology changes the waysheld last October 28-29, 2013. to learn and approach teaching. delegates during a plenary session.“Change, Chaos, and Resilience: “The illiterate of the 21stThriving in a Turbulent World” century will not be those who and even chaos, as Christiansfeatured Dr. John Wesley cannot read and write, but those we have hope. This helps us toTaylor V, Associate Director who cannot learn, unlearn, and be resilient when we know Jesusof Education for the General relearn,” she challenged her Christ as our guide throughConference of Seventh-day listeners. this turbulence. Dr. TaylorAdventists, as the keynote concluded, “God never promisedspeaker. Dr. Taylor emphasized The conference was a a smooth journey . . . but He didduring the keynote address poignant reminder of just how promise us a safe landing.” Othat chaos is a part of our daily turbulent this world is that welife. Anything and everything live in. Everything seems tothat causes a change in our remind people about just howattitude and in the way we do fragile time is and the nearnessthings, our thinking lead to of the Second Advent of Jesusinternal conflict, and in some Christ. Despite these changes,cases, when change becomes toomuch, it turns into chaos. In addition to Dr. Taylor,more than 20 other speakersfrom other parts of the worldwere featured during the event.Another highlight was whenDr. Desrene Vernon-Brebnor MAY ANN BARAGONA is a Master of Arts PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN in Education student. Dr. John Wesley Taylor V delivers his keynote speech on change, chaos and resilience.6 Flags | March 2014

AcademicCHRISTIAN ETHICS IN THE during the meetings. The forumXXI CENTURY BY DON LEO GARILVA JR. culminated with Dr. EkkenhardtO n October 31 to November Mueller of the Biblical Research 2, 2013 AIIAS held its 16th Steve Bauer of Southern Institute (BRI) of the General Annual Theological Forum Adventist University and Conference who shared to thewith the theme, “Christian Zdravko Plantak of Washington participants about the GeneralEthics in the XXI Century.” Adventist University. Other Conference Ethics CommitteeAttended by delegates from all speakers presented topics and how it functions to help theover the Philippines and abroad, that ranged from divorce and Seventh-day Adventist Churchthis was a one of a kind meeting remarriage to homosexuality worldwide. He pointed out thatas attendees were treated to and the ethics of literary ethics is a very important area ofsome presentations via video borrowing. Participants asked study for Adventist scholars andconference from guest speakers many questions that showed the more specialists are needed in relevance of the topics engaged this area. O DON LEO GARILVA JR. is a Master of Arts in Religion student and the Vice President Social of the Student Association.NEW PERSONNEL BY STEPHEN GUPTILL We are blessed to have Bill, Rita, and Bruce as part of our AIIAS family.Dr. William “Bill” Green, the Dr. Rita Henriquez-Green, wife of Dr. Bruce Sumendap, from Indonesia, isnew Graduate School Dean, William Green, joins the faculty the new Director of Public Relations.comes to AIIAS from the of the Education Department. He earned a Master of BusinessUnited States. He received his She earned her Doctor of Administration from AIIAS and aDoctor of Philosophy in School Education in Curriculum and Bachelor of Science in CommerceLeadership from the University Instruction from Andrews from the Adventist University of theof Oregon and his Master of University and Master of Arts Philippines. Before coming to AIIAS,Arts in Reading Education from in French from California State he served as the Public RelationsCalifornia State University. He University. Before coming Director and Marketing Managerhas served as a faculty at La to AIIAS, she served as the at Bandung Adventist Hospital,Sierra University, Northern Associate Superintendent of Associate Director for HopeCaribbean University, University Education for the Southern Channel Indonesia, and Associateof Oregon, Southern Adventist California Conference of Communications Director for theUniversity, and Andrews Seventh-day Adventist in West Indonesia Union Mission.University. Glendale, California. www.aiias.edu | Flags 7

News PHOTO CREDIT: JIM WEBB professional experience and also enhanced my personal andLEARNING AND TEACHING spiritual growth.BEYOND AIIAS BY RAHEL STROECKThe class “Advanced I admired the hard work and Instructional Strategies” enthusiastically agreed. Mindoro dedication of teachers who serve helped us get involved with is the neighboring island south in such remote areas, willingteaching strategies that engage of Cavite where AIIAS is located. to sacrifice comfort and theirstudents in cooperative learning, Puerto Galera is a tourist spot lifestyle in order to live a life ofinductive thinking, critical on the northern side of Oriental service. Teaching is by definitionthinking, and other habits of Mindoro. On the opposite side, challenging, even in the mostmind. The thrill of being able to known as Occidental, hosts prosperous places, but with theseuse what I am learning to teach more indigenous tribes. Many of limited resources in a culture notothers gripped me. “Let’s go to them live in remote mountain accustomed to formal education,Mindoro for the professional areas, oppressed by others and this places huge demands on thedevelopment of the teachers frequently without any formal teachers. I saw their enthusiasm,at Katatubo Excel School Inc.,” education. especially during the hands-onone of my classmates from activities, it was truly a fulfillingMindoro suggested, and I Soon after the class was over, reward to just interact with we prepared for the teacher- them. They were full of passion training seminar. A two-hour ride and the teachers shared with me in a mini-van, two hours on the how they plan to use what they ferry, and another hour in the have learned when they return to mini-van brought us safely to their respective villages. Mamburao where the high school and headquarters are located. Missionaries Jim and Moni The primary schools serve the Webb, who run the school, remote villages of the Katatubo. were also involved in the workshop and I believe their We spent two days with over involvement will contribute to 20 teachers. I gained a unique the implementation of concepts learned during the professional development seminar. True to our expectation, soon after classes resumed, Dr. Gaikwad received a message from Mr. Webb: “We are experiencing our best year ever with motivated teachers and receptive students!” This was one of the service learning opportunities that truly enriched my life while studying at AIIAS. O PHOTO CREDIT: JIM WEBB NOTE: Katatubo Excel School Inc. serves the katatubo (a Filipino word for native or indigenous) tribe and offers K-9. The school’s goals include “educate katatubo students with a solidChildren excited about learning as a direct result of spiritual and academic foundation enabling them to pursue a higher education… In striving the teacher development seminar. for mastery on all levels, our students will be better prepared to become effective Christian leaders in their families and communities.” 8 Flags | March 2014 RAHEL STROECK is a Master of Arts in Education student.

NewsThe Education Department PHOTO CREDIT: GERALD STROECK mission trip to Mongolia in July 2013 was in response to Dr. Prema Gaikwad teaching actions songs during the English summer camp in Mongolia.an invitation from the AdventistEnglish School through DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATIONDulamsuren Mandakh (Oka), GOES TO MONGOLIA BY RAHEL STROECK &a recent AIIAS graduate. Theobjective was to conduct the PREMA GAIKWADfirst Adventist English summercamp for school children. The Our team consisted of Dr. and it turned out that he hadpolitical situation makes it Prema Gaikwad from India, accepted Jesus only one monthextremely difficult to share Yaqin Lui from China, Rahel before. It was a wonderfulreligious beliefs in this country. Stroeck Switzerland, Gerald surprise.English schools are a non- Stroeck from Germany, andthreatening way to reach out to Mishigdorj Enkhbayar (Debbie) The summer camp endedstudents to build relationships. from Mongolia. We were assisted all too soon. Our hosts showed by some teachers from the us different types of traditional Many Mongolians spend English school when translation clothing, and gave us a tourtheir summer in rural areas and was needed. to the traditional housessummer camps are offered by called “ger,” the Genghis Khanmany different organizations. We felt God’s guidance in all monument and museum, andThe English summer camp is the teaching and activities. We other places in and aroundtherefore ideal to the culture were not allowed to openly talk Ulaanbaatar. It was a specialand society. The challenge was about God so we simply prayed privilege to be able to visit thesimply on how to teach these that our lives could be a witness Adventist Church in Ulaanbaatarchildren who did not hardly to the children. One boy asked and to meet several AIIASspeak hardly any English! The one of us if we were Christians alumni. Osecond challenge was gettingvisas to enter Mongolia. After PREMA GAIKWAD is the Chair of themuch prayer, the visas came Education Department.through. We sensed God’sblessing upon our trip toMongolia. When we arrived at thecampsite, it was very basic:simple dormitories, a cafeteria,and large rooms with lotsof grass between buildings.Mountains covered with greenpine trees surrounded the campand provided space for naturewalks. The youth, ages 8 to 16,were well-behaved and helpedeach other learn English. www.aiias.edu | Flags 9

News WEIGHT MANAGEMENT BY MOSES KAYONGO AND HEALTH IMPROVEMENT MOSESKAYONGOisMasterofPublic Health graduate of AIIAS. PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN MDiv (Chief Executive Officer), • The role of nutrition and Rene Quispe, PhD (Director of proper weight management Cooking demonstration by Myra Mendez. Behavioral Education), Esther • Why women live longer Alonso-Neal, MSN, RN, PHN than men and understandingAIIAS hosted the “Weight (Director of Community Health estrogen versus testosterone Management and Health Education), Colin Ross, MD, • Cooking demonstrations that Improvement Program,” a PhD, MPH (Director of Health followed each mid-day session. four-day series from November Education), Arlene Taylor, PhD 14-17 led by a team of health (Brain Function Specialist) and The Sabbath program experts from Pacific Health Myla Mendez (Executive Chef). included Dr. James Park who Education Center located in the spoke about “Health and United States. The main goal The program included a Spirituality” and Dr. Fred of the program was to provide variety of topics such as: Hardinge who gave updates educational resources that on the Adventist Health Study will help communities become • How food affect our mood along with scientific research more aware of simple lifestyle and eating habits that supports the Seventh-day changes that can benefit their • The secrets to living a long Adventist philosophy of health. overall health and prevent and healthy life The afternoon session featured a disease. This was demonstrated • Proper body weight and panel discussion where panelists through a wide variety of nutrition answered various questions presentations covering • How to alter bad behaviors with the latest medical research. various topics and with skillful • Immune system secrets Part of the discussion centered demonstrations. • Brain cellular memory and on the importance of breakfast, the connection to body weight genetically modified organism The highly qualified team • Weight management (GMO), and how additives and consisted of Steve Horton, MPH, • Fitness for life condiments are used today. O10 Flags | March 2014 PHOTO CREDIT: AIMEE TAPECERIA Some of the guest speakers from the Pacific Health Education Center: (from left to right) Rene Quispe, Steve Horten, and Brian Neal.

News“ A IIAS should have the PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN Health Festival Weekend twice a year” suggestedone seminary student afterattending the Health FestivalWeekend 2013.The weekend incorporatedeight health promotion activities.It commenced with the Fridayvespers program, “The DramaThat Will Change Your Life.”The drama team, composed ofAJA students, portrayed thedifferences of a modern family STRENGTHENING FAMILYand a health promotion family. RELATIONSHIP THROUGHAfterwards, Moses Kayongo gave a HEALTHY LIFE PRACTICES Familieshavingfunandshort message in response to thedrama. playing together during the Family Fun Night. The Sabbath morningprogram was entitled, “OurAdventist Health Advantage.” Thehighlight of the Sabbath Schoolprogram was an inspirational BY XUZHANG CHEN, FELEKECH DESTA, RENOIR CAÑA & DHANY IRAWANdocumentary video of the Blancofamily from Argentina about food for everyone to enjoy. One PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWANtheir healthy practices as a student stated, “It is a privilegefamily living in AIIAS. Abraham to experience this type of potluck PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWANWoncheso, Ruth Pondi, and Dr. where you can taste varieties of (Top) Public Health students conduct health screening.Prema Gaikwad shared their food from different countries (Bottom) International cuisine served for Sabbath lunchtestimonies in reflection to the which are healthy and are fordocumentary video through free.”a panel discussion. For thedivine worship, Dr. Cesar Galvez “Are you prepared to dodelivered a message entitled, gardening in the New Earth” was“Healing for the Laodicean the title of the sundown worshipSyndrome” which challenged the where Dr. Reuel Almocera andcongregation to realize where Nirobindu Das shared biblicalthey are at in their Christian walk principles and environmentaland to allow God to be in total health science about gardeningcontrol of their lives. to enable families to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. The divine service was In response to the program, afollowed by “An Amazing Healthy seminary student shared “In myFamily Banquet,” that brought country, the people mainly relytogether 84 countries, which were on gardening as the means togrouped into 12 communities that supply food for the family. So forpresented and shared a healthy me gardening is very essential.”version of their traditional ...continued on page 16XUZHANG CHEN, FELEKECH DESTA, RENOIR CAÑA and DHANY IRAWAN are during the \"Amazing Healthy Family Banquet.\"Master of Public Health students. www.aiias.edu | Flags 11

Feature CHRISTMAS IN TACLOBAN BY AIMEE TAPECERIA to properly wash their hands and brush their teeth, while givingThe Department of Public them free soap, tooth brush, and Health had a 16-person team toothpaste to use. led by the Department ChairDr. Cesar Galvez who spent Under the supervision ofsix days of their Christmas Assistant Professor Dr. Chirlynorbreak visiting the destroyed Calbayan, the team conducted acity of Tacloban, Philippines. nutrition education program forThey conducted assessments, mothers. The program includedseminars, and assisted with aid a cooking demonstration ofdistribution for victims. VITA-MEAL (the type of food distributed as food aid). Thanks Even basic transportation to the generosity of Garycould be an incredible challenge. Stanhiser of Giving Children HopeIn order to get there, the Foundation, the team distributedteam flew first to Cebu City on approximately 3,000 VITA-MEAL,December 19 and then took hygiene kits, and medical supplies.an overnight ferry to OrmocCity and from there they hired “We would like to thank Garya van to drive the last part Stanhiser for having given us theof the way to Tacloban City. opportunity of serving the HaiyanThey visited the East Visayan victims in Tacloban City,” saysConference (EVC), the regional Galvez. “It was the best Christmasheadquarters of the Seventh-day ever.”Adventist Church in that area.Students stared in disbelief at  The team returned to AIIASthe incredible destruction in and on Christmas Eve, yet manysurrounding the church facility. expressed feelings that they had already celebrated the best On Sabbath, December 21, Christmas by bringing relief to thethe team began their day with many they met in Tacloban. Oa worship service at the churchon the EVC compound and thenconducted an ocular inspectionof Brgy. 88 and family interviewsin Brgy. 89. On the second day, theteam went back to Brgy. 89 andconducted a health educationprogram for the children.They started with some actionsongs, then taught them howBarangay (Brgy.) is a Filipino term for village,district or neighborhood.12 Flags | March 2014

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Feature PHOTO CREDIT: GEOFF WHITEE which was the farthest island to coordinate distribution details. Mary Ann Belga (ADRA Philippines), Aimee Tapeceria (AIIAS), and Jesse Bliss (Loma Linda University) with the residents of Brgy. Lantangan. On the return trip, I watched the destruction along the coastalFINDING GIGANTES ISLAND towns. I imagined what life was like for the people on that island, BY AIMEE TAPECERIA to Carles, Iloilo, to identify with homes destroyed, dwindling recipients for the next round of food supply, and the boats—theirAs an AIIAS employee I was food distribution. main source of income and fortunate that administration transportation—were now gone. approved a request from Timing Was Criticalthe Adventist Development and Change of PlansRelief Agency (ADRA) allowing Electric posts and trees inme to spend two weeks in the the road made the journey to the We returned to Carles twoinitial disaster response and northern coast a lot longer than days later, but were informed byassessment on the island of usual. As I got off the bus, I asked the mayor that there were simplyPanay. On November 14, only the conductor what time was no boats available to travelsix days after the disaster, I the last trip back to Iloilo City. out to the islands. Other relieflanded in Iloilo City to join their He said, “3 p.m.” It was already 1 organizations had to fly theirstaff, Mary Ann Belga, in the p.m. so I knew that I needed to supplies in that morning. Insteadrelief operations conducted on hurry. Despite limited time, I was he suggested that ADRA divertnorthern part of this island. able to meet the municipal social its goods to the barangays on worker to assess which island the mainland. Although initially Due to the urgency of the barangay could be targeted as apprehensive, we followed thedisaster response, Mary Ann and part of our relief efforts. I was suggestion. We distributed 1,600I decided to divide and conquer. also able to meet with the health food packs to the households inShe distributed food packs in worker and the captain of Brgy. the municipalities of Carles andPanay, Capiz and I commuted Lantangan of Gigantes Sur, Estancia in the next two days. Not Forgotten During the following days, my mind kept returning to the people of Gigantes. The voice of the Brgy. Captain echoed in my mind as I explained why we would not be able to give assistance to his island. We ...continued on page 15 PHOTO CREDIT: BRADEN BLYDE NOTE: ADRA was the first humanitarian organization to distribute relief goods to island of ADRA Assessment Team with the Royal Canadian Panay right after Haiyan. Two-thousand and one-hundred households in four municipalities Air Force pilot before flying to Gigantes Island. in the provinces of Iloilo and Capiz were able to received food packs within the first two weeks.14 Flags | March 2014

Spiritual LifeA n evangelistic meeting PHOTO CREDIT: LEE CALATRAVA was held at the AIIAS Function Hall last AIIAS Church Pastor Laudimer Gatus shares the message of hope.November 10-23, 2013 withthe theme: “Tanging Pag-Asa, TANGING PAG-ASA, A LIFEA Life Changing Seminar.” CHANGING SEMINAR BY LEE CALATRAVATanging Pag-Asa is a Filipinophrase meaning “Only Hope.” their personal Savior and were community, we continue to prayAIIAS Church Pastor Laudimer baptized during the culmination that the seed planted in theirGatus was the main speaker of the evangelistic meeting on hearts may continue to growthroughout the meetings. Dr. November 24, 2013. Some of and bear good fruits. OEvelyn Almocera, Dr. Chirlynor the brothers and sisters fromCalbayan, and selected MPH Kalubkob Adventist Church and LEE CALATRAVA is the Youth Pastor ofstudents gave health lectures. Batas Adventist Church came to AIIAS ChurchThe daily meetings were witness the baptism. As a faithattended by Bible interests fromKalubkob Adventist Churchand Batas Adventist Churchled by Al Lorenz Parais, AngelMorante, and Li Xin, who are1,000 Missionary Movementvolunteers. Other attendeeswere construction workers,ground maintenance workers,and household helpers in AIIAS. Seventeen people dedicatedtheir lives to Jesus Christ asFinding Gigantes... from page 14 out to Gigantes Island to conduct In the coming days and weeks, relief a thorough assessment as well as did come to these islands. I am thankfulsimply had no transportation to to spend some time with church for my experience and the interventionget there at that time. members. of many people who helped to make relief possible, even to some of these Later that week ADRA, joined Peace After the Storm very remote islands that were struck. O36 other humanitarian agenciesat the Capiz Provincial Capitol There are times in a person’s Aimee Tapeceria (AIIAS) with Braden Blyde (ADRAin Roxas City. It was there that life when he or she could literally Australia) conducting interviews in Northern Iloilo.the Royal Canadian Air Force feel the hand of God moving andannounced that if there was any guiding you each step of the way. www.aiias.edu | Flags 15organization that wanted to visit I felt God’s hand in my life rightany of the islands to conduct then. I did not know what theassessments or bring goods then, Lord had in mind for Gigantes.just let them know 72 hours in All I knew is that I was impressedadvance so they could schedule that God as an all-loving, all-a trip. powerful, and all-knowing God gave me peace in the wake of the ADRA filed a request on storm. I had reassurance thatThursday and on Sabbath help would come.morning, November 22, we flew

Spiritual Life PHOTO CREDIT: BRUCE SUMENDAP Strengthening Family... from page 11I DO BELIEVE, HELP MY UNBELIEF The “AIIAS Family Fun Night,” was full of games that enabled the BY ADVENTOR TRYE JR. • We are a people of mission. community to enjoy wonderful • In the name of Jesus’ there is social activities with theirWe were blessed to have Dr. total healing, forgiveness, victory, families. Jairyong Lee, President of and salvation. the Northern Asia-Pacific • God’s people have nothing to Sunday morning started withDivision as the speaker for the fear. “Ensure Your Future” where 60Week of Prayer on February • The taking of the Gospel to the participants underwent health8-15, 2014 with the theme “I Do ends of the world means sharing it screening conducted by theBelieve, Lord Help My Unbelief ” with the unreached people around Public Health students. The basicand “People of Hope.” Dr. Lee us. health screening consisted ofpresented some practical • The mission may seem lifestyle assessment, collection ofexamples from the Scripture enormous and challenging but vital signs, and anthropometricwhich emphasized the mission God will pave the way for us. measurement. This year, threeof the Seventh-day Adventist blood tests were incorporatedChurch. During the week, Dr. Lee We thank Dr. Lee for giving us in the health screening: fastingemphasized on the following messages that are relevant as we blood sugar, blood cholesterol,points: prepare to go and bring the Gospel and uric acid test. In addition, to the world. O free healthy breakfast was served for all the participants. “It isADVENTOR TRYE JR. is a candidate for graduation with Master of Divinity and is currently good that we have a free healthtaking Education Specialist. screening here at AIIAS. Through this program, students become PHOTO CREDIT: BRUCE SUMENDAP aware about their health status and receive health advice,” said Northern Asia-Pacific Division President Dr. Jairyong Lee challenged the AIIAS one business student. “The Family Community to take active part in spreading the gospel to the world. Adrenalin Rush” was the next activity that promoted physical16 Flags | March 2014 activity and to strengthen the bond of every family. This activity consisted of family games which included an obstacle course, tug of war, and chain race. Fresh coconut juice was also provided for the participants. The last activity was the “Garden Exhibit,” where selected students of AIIAS showcased their gardens and shared their knowledge about plants and gardening to the people who visited. Afterward, each participant enjoyed warm cup of pumpkin soup. The program ended with thanksgiving and prayer at the residence of Dr. Chirlynor Calbayan, a professor in Public Health Department. O

D ozens of different national flags. Multiple Activities eye-catching cultural fashions. There is a lot of energy when it comes to AIIAS BY DON LEO GARILVA JR.cultural night. LOVE IN ANY LANGUAGE Having the theme “Love in AnyLanguage” the program started with Myanmar Presentationa welcome dance by the Indonesiancommunity and the singing of the Philippine PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWANNational Anthem. After the openingprayer by Dr. Dolf Oberholster, AIIAS VP Indonesian Dancefor Academic Administration, the paradeof flags by nation set the mood for cultural PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWANlove and pride. From traditional dancesto modernized versions, the differentcommunities of AIIAS showcased their skillsin proving that love indeed can be felt andexpressed in different forms. May AnnBaragona and Vasco Chinate hosted theprogram. As the last presenter, Philippines,the host country presented a tribute ofgratitude to the international communitythanking them for their generosity after therecent super typhoon Haiyan tragedy. The program closed with remarks fromone of the Student Association (SA) sponsorsDr. Alfredo Agustin Jr. and a prayer by P. L.Thlenga, the SA VP for Religious Affairs. Themeeting closed as the SA thanked God for therich cultural diversity that is a little foretasteof what heaven will be like. O Philippine’s tribute to those who helped the victims of typhoon Haiyan. www.aiias.edu | Flags 17PHOTO CREDIT: MIRRIAM PAMULA

ActivitiesFRIENDSHIP, TEAMWORK, held January 30 to February 2,AND FUN BY AIMEE TAPECERIA 2014. PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN showed off the bandage over All registered students, his left eye “that is why I have faculty, and staff of AIIAS“ I truly enjoyed the Sports three stitches on my brow.” This were divided into four teams Fest, especially how our student from United Kingdom and assigned student team team came together” ran into teammate and faculty captains with faculty sponsors.remarked student Benjamin member Sunia Fukofuka after To prove that this was anMcKenzie. “Sunia and I really they collided on the football event for the whole family, allgot together in the football field during AIIAS Sports Fest immediate family members werefield” he added jokingly as he encouraged to participate in the event. During those four days, the teams competed in basketball, volleyball, football, badminton, table tennis, tennis, chess, and darts. Track and field, tug of war, and an international food fair were added into the mix during the last day to give a truly active, vibrant, and festive atmosphere. In such a diverse community it is fun to make friends while playing sports. The exercise also provides an outlet for busy students and faculty to develop “Friendship, Teamwork, and Fun.” O18 Flags | March 2014 PHOTO CREDIT: DHANY IRAWAN

Activities“Ido not want to be JELOME: GRACE UNDER gone when I am most PRESSURE BY AIMEE TAPECERIA needed,” observed ADRAPhilippines Programs Officer PHOTO CREDIT: AIMEE TAPECERIAJelome Manulu when askedabout why she spent her Jelome Manulu at the ADRA Philippines Office in Silang, Cavite.Christmas holiday time at work. they could be thanks to careful people of other countries, “I decided to schedule advance planning. and get the job done.” At themy annual leave on October time of the interview, Jelomeinstead of December because “I have had to work is proud of the fact thatthere always seemed to be a big with colleagues of other ADRA Philippines has alreadydisaster going on during this nationalities before, but implemented relief projectstime of the year.” never in these circumstances worth an estimate of US$2.9M where everything was under (and still increasing) that will Predictably another disaster pressure and needed to be done help in the rehabilitation anddid come, but the intensity of quickly due to the magnitude restoration of the lives of theHaiyan was unpredicted. of the disaster.” With the data victims. from the assessment teams, Since then, the ADRA Jelome with other ADRA Jelome Manulu graduatedPhilippines office in Silang, representatives were kept busy from AIIAS with a degree ofCavite, has buzzed with conceptualizing projects and Master of Public Health withactivity. Members of the ADRA writing proposals, sending an Emphasis on Nutrition inEmergency Response Team flew them off to potential donors March 2008. She is currentlyin and out of Manila to assist in with prayers for immediate working for ADRA Philippines asthe writing of proposals while funding. Programs Officer where she isadditional personnel were involved in developing conceptsent to central Philippines to “Being an AIIAS alumna papers and project proposal,organize the operations. ADRA gave me the ability to look and regularly monitors andPhilippines was as prepared as beyond the cultural differences, evaluates livelihood projects. O understand how to work with PHOTO CREDIT: MARY ANN BELGA Jelome at the on-site evaluation in Panay Island. www.aiias.edu | Flags 19

Advancement“ A IIAS students have a BY AIMEE TAPECERIA distinct advantage when it comes to leadership ATHDEVAANIITAASGEdevelopment because theyare forced to develop their (Top) Dr. Francisco Gayoba shares funny anecdotes. (Bottom) Attendees and participants ofcommunication, contextual, the Alumni Homecoming Banquet.and adoptive competencies insurviving the multi-cultural Philippines, and Latin America. The AIIAS Alumni Office is beenenvironment as they study scheduling Alumni Homecoming events around the same time ashere,” remarked AIIAS Alumni the Graduate School or Seminary Forums so that those attendingand Adventist University of can attend both events. The Alumni Office is hoping that more of itsthe Philippines president, Dr. alumni would be able to attend this event in the coming years. OFrancisco Gayoba, who spokeduring the Alumni HomecomingBanquet held last October 30,2013.  Dr. Gayoba shared humorouspersonal experiences about howto live with other persons fromdifferent cultures and discussedhow different viewpoints haveenriched his leadership andministry. The light atmospheremaintained during the dinnerwas followed by an “AIIASFACTS” quiz given by RaimondLuntungan and a mini-culturalshow featuring students fromGeorgia, India, Indonesia,PERSPECTIVES colorful photos that tell a WHAT AIIAS MEANS TO ME story. High-resolution, jpeg We want your AIIAS format. Your thoughts about AIIAS perspective! We’re looking for in 100 words or less. original photos, poetry, and POETRY opinions. SUBMISSION Original poetry that PHOTOS reflects your culture, your Send your submissions AIIAS experience or spiritual to [email protected] with AIIAS, the Philippines journey. Perspectives in the subject. or your home country as Please include your name, the subject. High contrast, home country and portrait photo.20 Flags | March 2014

AdvancementPHOTO CREDIT: BRUCE SUMENDAPStudent Tower O, the 15th BY BRUCE SUMENDAP student housing facility on campus, was inaugurated INAUGURATON OF TOWER 0on February 3, 2014. Designedprimarily to accommodate with other anonymous Tower O is the first of foursingles and young couples contributors who generously new student towers projectedwithout children, this four- supported this building to be built as part of the AIIASstory building features 14 project. Master Plan. Construction ondouble-rooms which are fully Tower P has already begun,furnished. A special feature is a The event culminated while resources and fundsspacious lounge on the ground with a ribbon-cutting are being generated for thefloor. ceremony at the entrance remaining two towers. of the Tower O witnessed A thanksgiving program was by approximately 200 For more information, emailheld to recognize key donors. participants. Afterward [email protected] OThe General Conference of guests were invited to tourSeventh-day Adventists along the housing units.with world divisions: SouthernAsia-Pacific Division andNorthern Asia-Pacific Division.Significant donors also includedDr. & Mrs. Gary Hullquist, Dr.& Mrs. Stephen Guptill, andMr. & Mrs. Jim Hippler along www.aiias.edu | Flags 21PHOTO CREDIT: BRUCE SUMENDAP

AnnouncementsSTUDENT SERVICES: THE CHALLENGEOF ‘SHAPING LIVES’ BY BRUCE SUMENDAPS tudent Services is an administrative and April 10-13, 2014 //AIIAS, Silang, Cavite, PHILIPPINES management functionwhich concerns enriching the MAIN SPEAKERS Rick Williamsquality of student life whilestudents pursue their graduate John Wesley Taylor V Vice President for Enrollmenteducation. Areas covered Management & Student Servicesby this department include Associate Director of Education Loma Linda Universityrecruitment, accommodation, General Conferencesports, and recreation, as well as World Headquarters Tommy A. Mambucampus safety. The importanceof this department was a major Paoring L. Ragui Presidentreason behind the planning Klabat Universityand organizing of the first Vice President for Student ServicesInternational Student Services and Public Relations Winifredo PaezConference which will be held AIIASon April 10-13, 2014, in the AIIAS Vice President for Student ServicesCampus. Carlyle Ingersoll Adventist University of the Philippines Anchored to the theme, Director of Student Activities“Transforming Students’ Lives Loma Linda Universityfor Eternity,” the conferencefocused on the important Nancy Guerpo Hosted by the Southern Asia-Pacific Division and endorsed bywork of student services the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. For furtheramong Adventist schools and Director of Residential Life/ information/inquiries, please visit our website:universities in creating school Dean of Women http://www.aiias.edu/studentservconfenvironments that will lead La Sierra Universitystudents to Jesus Christ. worship and Sabbath-keeping, For updates on the Being the first event of its and gender issues to name a conference, please visit ourkind in this region, the three- few. This is an opportunity for website:day conference will provide student services practitioners www.aiias.edu/studentservconfparticipants with insights, to network with speakers andstrategies, and techniques in fellow peers in the field. Omanaging student services andstudent affairs. No less than 25 internationalspeakers have been invited topresent on topics of discipline,conflict resolution, addiction,love and courtship, spirituality,22 Flags | March 2014

DATES TO REMEMBER Announcements(For Prospective Students) CONNECTIONS AIIAS is a global community, and we would like to hear from you!Mar 07 - 09 Graduation Exercises Email us at [email protected] or write toInter-Semester Flags, AIIAS, Lalaan 1, Silang, Cavite 4118 PhilippinesMar 11 English Placement Test ALUMNI: Send us news about yourself that canMar 12 English Center Registration be shared in upcoming issues of Flags. Please include your picture, full name (indicate if itMar 13 On-campus Registration & has changed since you were at AIIAS), degree completed at AIIAS and year of graduation. New Student Orientation FORMER FACULTY AND STAFF: Send us theMar 17 On-campus Classes Begin dates that you were at AIIAS, your position, your current mailing address, and emailApr 10 - 13 1st International Student Services address, along with any news notes (with a recent picture) about yourself for future Conference publication in Flags.Apr 18 - 20 AIIAS African Theological Forum EVERYONE: If you would like to be a part of the good things that are happening at AIIAS, thereMay 15 On-campus Classes End are many opportunities to become involved! More information is available on our website (www.aiias.edu) and facebook page (www. facebook.com/aiias).First Semester – Term A As a developing institution, AIIAS isJun 03 English Placement Test constantly bettering the services provided for students such as student scholarships andJun 04 English Center Registration building projects. Any financial support you can offer will be greatly appreciated. It willJun 05 On-campus Registration & help to give more students the opportunity to experience AIIAS as they prepare to help New Student Orientation further God’s work throughout the world. Tax- deductible donations may be sent to:Jun 09 On-campus Classes Begin AIIAS, c/o TreasuryJun 13 - 15 AIIAS Asia Theological Society General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists 12501 Old Columbia Pike, Silver Spring,Jul 07 Admission Deadline for First Semester MD 20904, U.S.A. Term B TO SUBSCRIBE to Flags Magazine, please send us your name and email address.Aug 05 On-campus Classes End First Semester – Term B Aug 06 English Placement TestAug 07 On-campus Registration & New Student Orientation English Center RegistrationAug 11 On-campus Classes BeginSep 16 Admission Deadline for Second SemesterOct 09 On-campus Classes EndOct 20 - 21 AIIAS International ForumOct 30 - Nov 1 AIIAS Theological ForumNov 01 Alumni Homecoming Visit www.aiias.edu or email [email protected] more information. www.aiias.edu | Flags 23

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