Quezon City, May 18, 2023 – The 21st Lingap Pangkabataan General Assembly, with the theme “LPI@42: Journeying Steadfastly in Serving God and People,” took place on May 18, 2023. Held at the National Council of Churches in the Philippines, EDSA, Quezon City, the assembly brought together 11 members on-site and 6 participants via ZOOM. The event aimed to discuss the highlights of the previous year, including approved policies, actions by the Board of Trustees, and implemented activities.
Mr. Norman Franklin Agustin, the Executive Director, provided updates on the organization’s administration and program operations. Lingap Board Member and Internal Auditor, Ms. Mary Sandoval, read thru the Audited Financial Statement on behalf of the Lingap Treasurer. Ms. Sandoval’s presentation helped in shedding light on the organization’s financial status. Although unable to provide his report as Chairperson as he could not attend due to health reasons, Bishop Jerome Baris welcomed fellow members through a message read by Mr. Agustin.
The assembly shed light on the actions and policies passed by the Board of Trustees, sparking discussions on their relationship to the General Assembly’s role as the highest policy-making body. Mr. Ian Mosquisa, a current Trustee, reminded attendees that while the Board can delegate authority to the executive, it cannot absolve itself of responsibility.
One significant topic of discussion during the assembly revolved around the approval or confirmation of the 2023 Annual Work and Financial Plans (AWFP). GA members inquired about the approval process, whether future AWFPs would be addressed one year ahead, and the possibility of adopting a fiscal year instead of the current calendar year. In response, the members resolved to refer these concerns to the Board of Trustees (BOT) for thorough study and recommendation.
In a poignant moment, the members offered a minute of silence and prayer to honor the late Dr. Metodio A. Palaypay, one of Lingap’s founders and former Trustee, who passed away last April. Dr. Palaypay played a vital role in the implementation of several impactful programs benefiting children and community partners. His contributions include the flagship program “Situation-oriented Approach to Early Childhood Education,” the Lingap Health Assistance Fund, and initiatives promoting children’s health and environmental sustainability through his “Greenology” and Zero-waste advocacies.
During the assembly, Ms. Mary Sandoval, an outgoing Board member, received a certificate of recognition for her years of service to Lingap.
Furthermore, new members were elected to the Board of Trustees. Mr. Saturnino Garvida and Ms. Analisa Cortes will represent Lingap member churches, while Rev. Carlito Felonia and Rev. Juliet Solis Aguilar will represent partner organizations. The addition of these esteemed individuals to the Board promises fresh perspectives and valuable insights as Lingap moves forward.
The 21st Lingap Pangkabataan General Assembly concluded at approximately 4:30 in the afternoon. The event fostered productive discussions, provided updates on accomplishments and financial status, paid tribute to a beloved founder, and welcomed new members to the Board. Lingap Pangkabataan remains steadfast in its commitment to serving God and the community, as it embarks on the next phase of its journey.