A History of Faith in Pongpong: The Story of the Pongpong Church of Christ

This history of the Pongpong Church of Christ is based on an article originally written by the late Pablo Lachica and published on October 19, 2007. We gratefully acknowledge his contribution in documenting the early years of the church.

A Remote Beginning

Pongpong, nestled in the hills of Sto. Tomas, La Union, Philippines, was a truly isolated village in the 1960s. Reaching it meant a five-kilometer trek from the nearest road, traversing rivers and rugged terrain. Today, a paved road connects Pongpong to the outside world, but in those early days, its remoteness played a significant role in the unique story of its church.

The Seeds of Faith are Sown

The Gospel arrived in Pongpong not through grand plans, but through a seemingly chance encounter. In 1962, Natividad Bejagon, a public school teacher, was assigned to the village elementary school. Her husband, Jesus Bejagon, a student at Philippine Bible College in Baguio City, would visit her on weekends. During one visit, he found himself in a theological discussion with a Jehovah's Witness preacher. Unfamiliar with the Ilocano dialect, Jesus was unable to effectively counter the preacher's arguments. However, he vowed to return with support.

The following weekend, Jesus brought with him Casimiro Annague, a former Jehovah's Witness who had converted to the Church of Christ and was also studying at Philippine Bible College. "Tatang Miro," as he was fondly called, skillfully debated the Jehovah's Witness preacher, effectively presenting the doctrines of the Church of Christ. This victory sparked the interest of the village elders, who eagerly sought to learn more.

The First Converts and Early Influences

By the end of 1962, the first converts in Pongpong were baptized, including Fortunato Dulay, Bernardo Quezada, Pering Calonge, and Bernardo Panergo. Student preachers from Philippine Bible College, including Eusebio Tanicala, Reynaldo Jacob, Alex Jacob, and Macario Macato, began visiting Pongpong on weekends, sharing the Gospel and nurturing the young congregation. Casimiro Annague remained a steadfast presence, providing regular guidance and teaching.

Missionaries also played a vital role in the church's early growth. Kenneth J. Wilkey, Bob Buchanan, and Douglas Lecroy were frequent visitors, enduring the long journey on foot and the simple accommodations Pongpong offered.

A Growing Congregation

In 1964, several families, including the Lachica, Mercado, Panergo, Villanueva, and Doctolero families, were baptized into Christ. The meeting place shifted from Fortunato Dulay's home to that of Juan Lachica, who generously donated land for a future chapel.

The mid-1960s saw a series of public debates that further fueled the church's growth. Teofilo G. Alcayde and Leonardo B. Corpuz engaged in discussions with Jehovah's Witnesses, while Eusebio Tanicala debated a Pentecostal preacher. These events solidified the faith of the local Christians and drew others to the message of the Gospel.

Nicasio Fulgencio, a regular student preacher, was instrumental in bringing more people to the Lord, including Rudy Mercado (who later became a preacher in Diffun) and Bienvenido Reano. Elizabeth Bernardo and Rebecca Erese-Braga faithfully taught children's classes on weekends, nurturing the next generation of believers.

The Church Today

The Pongpong Church of Christ has continued to grow and mature. It is now led by a dedicated group of elders and deacons who shepherd the congregation. Trifon Lachica serves as the preacher, supported in part by the local church and his own farming endeavors.

The original chapel, built on the land donated by Juan Lachica, has undergone expansions and renovations over the years, thanks to the generosity of members and supporters like the Aguda family, the Smokey Mountain Church in the USA, and the late Herman and Perse Trinidad.

The church remains committed to evangelism, edification, and benevolence, carrying on the legacy of faith established by its founders.

A Legacy of Faith

The story of the Pongpong Church of Christ is a testament to the power of the Gospel to transform lives and build a community of faith, even in the most remote corners of the world. It is a story of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to the Lord. As the church continues to grow and thrive, it stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the faithfulness of God.

Note: This article is based on the available information. Further research and interviews with current church members could provide additional details and insights.