Bukang-Liwayway: The Beginnings and Development of the Adventist Church in the Philippines (1905-1925)

This book offers a compelling narrative of the beginning and development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the Philippines from 1905 to 1925—a formative period marked by sacrifice, faith, and an unyielding passion for the gospel. Following Spain's defeat in the Spanish-American war in 1898, the Philippines became open to Protestant missions. Among the churches eager to establish a mission was the Seventh-day Adventist Church.Drawing from rich archival sources and first-person missionary accounts, the book tells the story of devoted literature evangelists, Bible workers, and Filipino believers who labored together to proclaim the Three Angels’ Messages. These pioneers preached salvation through Jesus Christ, lived out their faith in obedience, and proclaimed the hope of Christ’s soon return, even amid hardship, uncertainty, and limited resources. Their work stretched from Manila to Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao, revealing how a small beginning grew into a Philippine-wide movement.More than a simple chronological account, this book is a careful historical reconstruction grounded primarily in original documents preserved in Seventh-day Adventist archives. Acknowledging the limitations and gaps in available sources, the author thoughtfully presents probable timelines, discusses discrepancies, and provides clarifications where possible—allowing readers to appreciate both the richness and the complexity of early Adventist history in the Philippines.Above all, this work is written not only to inform but to inspire. By preserving the voices of the pioneers and letting them speak for themselves, the book captures their zeal, courage, and unwavering commitment to truth. It invites today’s readers to reflect on the legacy of faith handed down to them and to embody the same spirit of dedication and mission in their own time. Read more