Aware of the need to reduce stress symptoms and assist healthy recovery following a traumatic event, specifically the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Mindanao, Philippines, on June 8, 2026, the Administration of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) continued extending care to affected brethren through Psychological First Aid (PFA) activities in Mindanao, such as those respectively conducted by the Ecclesiastical Districts of General Santos City, South Cotabato, and Davao del Sur on June 18–20, 2026.

General Santos City, South Cotabato
On June 18-19, the said activities were held in multiple venues across the district, which were the Local Congregations of Buayan, Glan, General Santos City, Ladol, Lagao, Ligaya Hi-Way, Pag-asa, and Malapatan.

The activities provided the attendees opportunities to express their thoughts and experiences following the earthquake. Alongside these sessions, ministers of the gospel delivered Bible-based teachings that provided comfort and encouragement, helping the brethren strengthen their faith while gradually recovering from emotional distress.

PFA sessions and counseling activities were facilitated primarily by ministers of the gospel, such as Brother Leo Villafuerte of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) School for Ministers (Guidance and Counseling), who emphasized the importance of providing structured emotional support alongside spiritual guidance. “The Church Administration deemed it proper to send ministers trained in counseling to help the brethren cope with their situation,” he said.

The district’s Christian Medical Dental and Paramedical Society (CMDPS) officers were likewise not remiss in attending to the needs of participants.

“The earthquake was very strong and my house was shaken violently,” shared Dina Canning of Malapatan Congregation. “Through this activity, I felt the love and concern being extended to me. I’m truly thankful.”

“Being able to share what I’ve been feeling helped me ease the burden I’m carrying,” said Rebecca Malasarte of Glan Congregation, adding, “Despite what happened, I will continue serving the Lord God and placing our trust in Him.”

“The counseling sessions were a great help to us,” shared CMDPS officer, Liza Aban, from Pag-asa Congregation. Afflicted as her brethren, she was grateful being given “the opportunity to express my feelings and gradually overcome my fears.”

Davao del Sur
PFA activities in the Ecclesiastical District of Davao del Sur, particularly in the Local Congregations of Bansalan, Digos City, and Padada, were held on June 19 to 20. The afflicted there were likewise guided through Bible-based teachings that provided comfort and reassurance amid uncertainty.

Brother Wilfred C. Sacayanan, district supervising minister, expressed appreciation for the immediate assistance extended to the district. “The brethren were truly grateful and looked forward to taking part,” he attested. “They were reminded to remain prayerful and to trust in God amid difficulties. Even though we’re far from the INC Central Office, we truly feel the care and concern of the Church Administration.”

Among those who benefited from the activity was Lagrimas Grande of Digos City Congregation. “I’m very thankful for being remembered,” she said. “The prayers and concern extended have brought to us here comfort during this difficult time.” — With assistance from Dave Jayson Jusi and Kenneth Ryzal Rendon