The triennial International Council on Congregational Education and Nazarene Educational Programs (ICCONEP) recently conducted a benchmarking activity titled “Mission Collab” involving three educational institutions of the Church of the Nazarene: Philippine Nazarene College (PNC) in La Trinidad, Benguet; Central Philippine Nazarene College (CPNC) in Cebu City; and Asia-Pacific Nazarene Theological Seminary (APNTS) in Taytay, Rizal.
The five-day program was held from 24-28 February 2026 and brought together administrators, faculty members, and student leaders from the participating institutions. While PNC and CPNC actively participated in the activities, APNTS served primarily as observers and promoted its graduate programs to prospective students from the colleges of Theology and Education.
The event generated excitement among participants, many of whom met face-to-face for the first time after previously interacting only through online meetings. On opening day, February 24, student leaders were formally introduced, including CPNC Student Body Council President Dee James.
Students from the host institution, PNC, expressed enthusiasm about meeting their counterparts from other Nazarene institutions. Some participants noted similarities between James and PNC’s own Student Body Council president, Rico Daos, particularly in their leadership style and approachability.
The program also included lighthearted interactions among participants as they exchanged friendly remarks and built rapport. Despite the playful comparisons, many reflected that genuine character and kindness are rooted in a heart guided by the Word of God.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in activities designed to promote fellowship, learning, and collaboration. Each day began early with a 4:30 a.m. wake-up call followed by morning devotions at 5:30 a.m. Breakfast gatherings often included brewed barako coffee, adding to the warm atmosphere of fellowship.
Two sermons were delivered during the program by Pastora Josefina Anoos, academic dean of CPNC, and Pastora Jema Florendo, academic dean of PNC.
As the program concluded on the final day, many participants expressed gratitude for the experience, describing it not as an ending but as the beginning of deeper friendships and collaborative relationships among Nazarene educational institutions.
Through shared activities, worship, and learning, participants strengthened connections that transcend geographical distance across the Philippine archipelago. For many, the event affirmed their shared commitment to serve God together in Christ Jesus.