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The United Evangelical Church of Isabela (UECI) is an Alliance Christian Church located in Isabela City, Basilan, Philippines. Known for its strong commitment to both spiritual growth and community service, UECI serves as a beacon of faith and humanitarian efforts in the region. The church is affiliated with the broader Christian Alliance network and is supported by the Tan family, a well-known local family involved in various philanthropic and community initiatives.

History and Founding

UECI was established as part of the broader Christian evangelical movement in the Philippines. Its founding members aimed to create a church that would not only serve as a place of worship but also address the spiritual, educational, and social needs of the local community. The church was originally led by local religious leaders but has grown under the guidance of prominent community figures, particularly the Tan family, which has played an instrumental role in its development.

Leadership

Currently, UECI is led by Pastor Ronald Rabbai Paulino, who serves as the head pastor. Pastor Paulino is responsible for the spiritual guidance of the congregation, overseeing church services, community outreach, and religious education programs. Under his leadership, the church has expanded its focus on both evangelical teachings and community welfare.

The overarching leadership of UECI is provided by Dr. Philip Natividad Tan, a physician and philanthropist known for his commitment to education and community development. Dr. Tan's vision for UECI goes beyond spiritual ministry, as he has incorporated a variety of social services aimed at improving the lives of Isabela City residents.

Educational Initiatives

A key element of Dr. Philip Natividad Tan’s leadership at UECI is his focus on education. Understanding the transformative power of education, Dr. Tan established a scholarship program aimed at helping members of the church pursue their academic goals. This program provides financial assistance to students from UECI who seek to further their education, thus enabling them to build better futures for themselves and their families. Through this initiative, UECI has supported numerous students in achieving their academic dreams.

Firefighter Group and Emergency Services

One of the most notable features of UECI is its Firefighter Group, a community-based initiative aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of the people in Isabela City and surrounding areas. The Firefighter Group is equipped with a fleet of high-end fire trucks, an ambulance, and a seaboat, all of which are essential for responding to various emergencies, including fires, medical situations, and rescue operations in water-based incidents.

The church's Firefighter Group is composed of trained volunteers, many of whom are church members who undergo rigorous training in firefighting, first aid, and rescue operations. This volunteer-based system allows UECI to maintain a high level of readiness and support for local emergencies. The group’s involvement has been particularly critical during natural disasters, such as typhoons and floods, as well as other urgent situations requiring immediate response.

The inclusion of a seaboat in the church's emergency response fleet is particularly significant for a community like Isabela City, where the proximity to the sea makes maritime rescue capabilities a necessity. The seaboat allows UECI to assist with water-based rescues during floods or other maritime incidents, further solidifying their role as a vital service provider in the region.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Beyond its educational and emergency service initiatives, UECI is deeply involved in community outreach. The church’s congregation regularly participates in local humanitarian projects, including feeding programs, health missions, and disaster relief efforts. UECI works closely with local government units, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other community groups to address pressing social issues, such as poverty, health care, and disaster preparedness.

One of the core values of UECI is selfless service, and this is reflected in the numerous volunteer programs offered to members. These programs encourage the congregation to actively engage in helping those in need, whether through direct action or by supporting local initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for marginalized communities.

Additionally, UECI holds regular community events and services aimed at strengthening the spiritual and social ties within Isabela City. These include prayer meetings, church festivals, and special services to mark important occasions and religious holidays. The church also encourages its members to engage in fellowship and mutual support, creating a strong network of believers who help each other grow spiritually and socially.

Vision and Mission

The vision of UECI is to be a center of spiritual nourishment, community service, and social transformation. The church aims to provide a safe and welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds to learn about the teachings of Christianity while also actively contributing to the betterment of the community.

The mission of UECI is to embody the Christian principles of love, compassion, and service. By empowering individuals through education, providing critical emergency services, and engaging in various outreach programs, UECI seeks to fulfill its calling as a church that not only preaches the gospel but also acts as a catalyst for positive change in society.

Conclusion

The United Evangelical Church of Isabela is an important religious and community institution in Isabela City, Basilan. Through its robust leadership, commitment to education, and humanitarian efforts, particularly through its Firefighter Group and scholarship programs, UECI continues to have a profound impact on the lives of its members and the broader community. Its strong emphasis on service, volunteerism, and faith-based action makes it a key player in the spiritual and social landscape of the region.