Weeks of Training, One Moment of Purpose: PAC Pathfinders Shine in Tactical Inspection

The Annual Tactical Inspection is more than just an event for Pathfinder clubs, it is a test of discipline, character, and commitment. For the students of Philippine Advent College Junior High School, it was the moment where weeks of sacrifice under the sun would finally put their training, teamwork, and perseverance to the test beyond academics.

On February 16, 2026, the Philippine Advent College (PAC) campus in Sindangan, Zamboanga del Norte, became the gathering place for youth leaders, church administrators, families, and community members as the Junior High School department showcased their skills in pathfindering during the much-anticipated Annual Tactical Inspection.

Across the territory of the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC), the inspection is regarded as one of the most awaited activities among Adventist high school institutions. The event does not only measure knowledge and practical skills, but more importantly evaluates the discipline, teamwork, and preparedness of the students.

Leading the inspection team were youth directors representing the conferences and mission offices under SWPUC, headed by Pastor Junifer Colegado, Youth Director of SWPUC, together with Associate Youth Director Pastor Deonel Peren. The occasion was further highlighted by the presence of Pastor Anukul Ritchil, Youth Director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division. Also present were leaders from the Zamboanga Peninsula Mission headed by its president, Pastor Klenjay Sajulga, along with local dignitaries from the municipality of Sindangan.

Families and friends filled the grounds to cheer and support the students. Their presence strengthened the morale of the pathfinders as they carried out drills, inspections, and demonstrations they had practiced for weeks despite the intense heat and demanding preparations.

For half a day, the students underwent a series of evaluations, from the Pass and Review to skills presentations and performances, all designed to assess their knowledge, discipline, and coordination. Each command executed and each formation completed reflected the dedication of the club and the guidance of their leaders.

Their efforts were rewarded as the Philippine Advent College Junior High School Pathfinder Club achieved Gold, recognizing both excellence and perseverance.

More than the recognition, however, the inspection served as a reminder of the purpose of the Pathfinder program that is to train young people to become responsible, disciplined, and service-oriented individuals. Through Pathfindering, students are nurtured to become the next leaders of the church, grounded in faith and guided by a heart for service, while being prepared to face the realities of the world to come. As the activities concluded and the cheers slowly faded, what remained was not only an achievement, but the character and values the students carried with them beyond the parade ground.