Adventist World Radio (AWR) Manila celebrated its inauguration ceremony on April 24, 2024, to officially launch its broadcast on DWAV 89.1 FM. Prior to this milestone, AWR had been airing its programs through blocktiming, where they purchased blocks of airtime for broadcasting.
Since 2018, AWR Manila had been in search of a suitable radio station to serve as its broadcasting platform. After meeting with various radio stations, they entered into a management agreement with Blockbuster Broadcasting System, Inc. (BBSI). This venture which took over a year to finalize, culminated in a contract signing on March 10, 2024.
Rabi Velasco, NPUC treasurer described the endeavor as “purely providential,” adding, “I believe God is certainly at work in mysterious and miraculous ways at His appointed time.”
The inauguration ceremony commenced with a motorcade, participated by a convoy of 150 riders, the radio ARM – Adventist Riding Missionaries and 40 vehicles moving along the busy streets of Pasay City distributing hundreds of Great Controversy books with AWR special covers and pamphlets to promote AWR to the public.
AWR President from the World Church, Elder Duane McKey with his wife Cathy graced the event with their presence. It was upon Duane’s determination to secure a radio station that spurred NPUC to action. In his address, he expressed, “It is just amazing what God has in store for AWR. God is going to do something special with 89.1 FM.” He also invited church members to actively engage in the radio ministry, stating the need for more broadcasters. “We always need more broadcasters. There’s a spot for you on the radio.” He reminded the audience, “All our broadcast should be focused on reaching people for Jesus so this work can be finished, and we can get off of this old bowl of mud and go home. That is why we do what we do.” McKey was the key figure in making the venture a reality.
Also in attendance were officers and representatives from the Southern Asia-Pacific Division, the regional headquarters of the Adventist Church in Asia led by President Pastor Roger Caderma, from sister unions in the Philippines, and officers and directors from missions, conferences, healthcare, and educational institutions in NPUC territory.
The mayor of Pasay City, Honorable Mayor Imelda-Emi Calixto-Rubiano, a staunch supporter of the Adventist Church in the area, also graced the gathering and offered words of encouragement. Recognizing the power of God’s Word, she expressed, “There is nothing more heartfelt, genuine and uplifting than the Words of the Savior,” and, conveyed her commitment to AWR adding, “From today and the years to come, we will be in support of you and your endeavors in action, faith, and on air.” Mayor Emi concluded her speech with a warm offer of assistance, saying, “If there’s anything that I can be of assistance even from womb to tomb, please don’t hesitate to visit me or call me and I would gladly assist you the best way I can.”
Highlights of the celebration included the unveiling of the AWR signage mounted on NPUC’s façade and the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated studio located at NPUC 3rd floor.
AWR Manila’s launch on DWAV 89.1 FM is a significant breakthrough in the development of the radio ministry in Mega Manila with the potential to reach around 40 million of its residents. AWR Manila has found its new home and broadcasting platform to share gospel truths, uplifting music, and various topics on health, stewardship, family, and relationships with the goal to lead individuals into a fruitful and meaningful life with Jesus. As the tagline suggests, AWR 89.1 FM is committed to “Transmitting Truth, Transforming Lives.”
North Philippine Union Conference