Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from the Ternate Branch and Maragondon Ward gathered on Saturday, 19 July 2025, for the groundbreaking ceremony of a new meetinghouse in Cavite. Local government officials and community leaders joined the event, marking a significant milestone for Latter-day Saints in the region.
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| Temple Square is always beautiful in the springtime. Gardeners work to prepare the ground for General Conference. © 2012 Intellectual Reserve, Inc. All rights reserved. | 1 / 2 |
A Spiritual Milestone
Presiding over the ceremony was President Marcelino G. Balderama of the Naic Philippines Stake (diocese). In his remarks, he expressed gratitude for the favorable weather despite forecasts of heavy rain, calling it a manifestation of divine support. “The Lord did wonders for us today,” he said. “He is the high priest of good things to come.”
Building on a Strong Foundation
Ternate Branch President Rodolfo E. Peliña offered a symbolic reflection on the groundbreaking:
“We need to dig deeply as a symbol of building a strong foundation. The Church has always been my refuge during life’s storms. This meetinghouse will serve the same purpose for many others.”
Ceremony Highlights
The ceremonial turning of the soil was led by President Balderama and his counselors, President Mathonee Eslava and President Quintin Canaya, Jr. They were joined by Ternate Mayor Lamberto Bambao, Barangay Captain Catalino Patinio, and other local leaders. Other Church members and leaders were also present, including longtime members and pioneers Emerlito and Zenaida Ramos.
A Long-Awaited Blessing
Since their establishment in 1988 and 1998 respectively, the Ternate and Maragondon congregations have held worship services in temporary rented spaces. The new meetinghouse represents the fulfillment of years of faith and perseverance.
Community Support
Mayor Bambao praised the Church’s contributions to the community and expressed full support for the project. “This groundbreaking symbolizes faith, unity, and hope,” he said. “We recognize your good works and compassion, and we look forward to the peace and love this meetinghouse will bring to our community.”
Looking Ahead
The new Ternate–Maragondon meetinghouse stands as a testament to the enduring faith of Latter-day Saints in Cavite. Once completed, it will serve as a spiritual home where individuals and families can worship, grow, and serve as a spiritual home where individuals and families can worship, grow, and serve together.