By FFWPU Philippines
The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU) Bicol Chapter held the Bicol Regional Gathering from October 2–4, 2026, bringing together members, national leaders, and representatives from various sectors to strengthen spiritual unity, expand youth development initiatives, and advance the providence in the Bicol Region. The series of activities was graced by FFWPU Philippines Regional Director and National Leader Rev. Leo Angelo Halog, together with other FFWPU and Universal Peace Federation (UPF) leaders from the Philippine Headquarters.
The gathering began on October 2 with a Cheon Shim Won Prayer Night Vigil at FFWPU Legazpi Church, attended by nearly 20 participants. The evening provided a meaningful opportunity for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal, inspiring participants to deepen their faith and strengthen their commitment to the providence.
On October 3, UPF-Bicol, together with the national leaders, held partnership meetings with representatives from the Albay Provincial Youth Development Office, headed by Mr. Rhondon Ricafort; Southern Luzon Technological College Foundation, Inc. (SLTCFI), represented by Ma’am Honelet Bertis, Vice President for Administration; and DSWD City Links. During the meetings, UPF introduced its vision and initiatives and explored opportunities for collaboration in youth development, empowerment, and community service. These engagements strengthened relationships with local institutions and opened possibilities for future programs that will inspire young people to become responsible, active, and peace-oriented leaders.
On October 4, the Bicol Regional Sunday Service gathered members, friends, and relatives from different provinces across the region for a celebration of faith, unity, and gratitude. Rev. Leo Angelo Halog delivered an inspiring message encouraging everyone to deepen their commitment to the providence and strengthen their families and communities. Heartfelt musical performances by blessed family members further enriched the program, creating an atmosphere of joy and fellowship as participants renewed their determination to advance the providence together.
The day also marked the appreciation ceremony honoring Rev. Ariel Villafuerte for his two years of dedicated service as Head Pastor of FFWPU Legazpi Church. The occasion recognized his hard work, sacrifices, and valuable contributions to the development of the Bicol Providence. This was followed by the formal turnover of leadership to Rev. Niña Yang, who expressed her gratitude for Rev. Ariel’s service and called on members to strengthen their unity and support one another. The transition marked a new chapter of leadership and renewed commitment to serving Heavenly Parent and True Parents.
In the afternoon, a special gathering of young people, particularly the student scholars and fulltime members from the Bicol region together with the FFWPU Philippines Regional Director and the HyojeongRang Task Force (HTF) Director, Mr. Francis Nolasco, took place, purposely to encourage the youth to go through training and become pure waters that can go out all throughout the Nation and the world on behalf of True Parents. In addition, a SINERGY Victory Party was held to honor and congratulate the Bicol delegates who proudly represented the region in the National SINERGY Competition held in Manila on September 18, 2026 during the International Youth and Students Assembly 2026. Mr. Wilfredo V. Bonaobra Jr. brought home the championship, Mr. Jenrick V. Marabillo earned 2nd place, and Mr. Francis Nipa achieved 5th place, carrying with them the spirit, determination, and pride of the Bicolano youth., Mr. Wilfredo V. Bonaobra Jr. had the opportunity to represent the Philippines and the Asia-Pacific region through an online participation in the International SINERGY Competition held in Europe, with the final results yet to be released.
Through these three days of spiritual renewal, institutional engagement, and leadership transition, the FFWPU Bicol Regional Gathering reaffirmed the region’s commitment to strengthening families, empowering the youth, fostering partnerships, and advancing the providence with a shared vision of peace and unity centering on Heavenly Parent and True Parents’ love.
