MANILA Sixth District Rep. Bienvenido Abante Jr. is urging educators within the Baptist community to continue being beacons of light, promoting positive Filipino values such as faith, love, and hope.

“To our Baptist educators and communities, you are more than teachers and congregations – you are stewards of faith and character,” said Abante, one of the authors of the National Baptist Day Act.

National Baptist Day, declared under Republic Act No. 11897, is celebrated every second Thursday of January.

“National Baptist Day is more than just a celebration; it honors the significant impact that Baptist communities have had in uplifting lives and spreading the teachings of faith, love, and hope,” Abante added.

As a special working holiday, National Baptist Day recognizes Baptists for their dedication to evangelical missions that strengthen society.

Abante, the founder of the Metropolitan Bible Baptist Church in 1975, emphasized faith’s role in shaping the moral foundation of Philippine society. The law also supports the establishment of Christian schools that foster academic excellence and build character, alongside churches that teach biblical principles promoting community development.

“Your efforts help shape the hearts and minds of younger generations, inspiring them to become responsible, compassionate, and God-fearing citizens,” he said.

“Let your leadership continue to serve as a guiding light of hope and a force for good in our nation,” Abante concluded.