UPC Altarc – Transforming each life in San Jose, Antique, Philippines

For those unfamiliar, Antique is pronounced as “An-tee-keh,” 

My connection with UPC Altarc in San Jose, Antique, started from a pretty interesting detour.

It actually began with my visit to UPC Matapat in Manila. Ps Remy, who runs UPC Matapat, is Ps Darren’s mother. That’s a story for another day, but it’s worth mentioning because this connection brought me to UPC Altarc.

Since last year, I’ve been visiting UPC Altarc and planning my trips back. There’s just something about what God is doing here that keeps drawing me in. Ps Darren and his team have this amazing way of pointing people to God while also making their ministry practical and real for the community.

Why UPC Altarc Feels Different from My Local Church Experience in Singapore

It’s not about competition—God uses different churches for different purposes. I’ve learnt that visiting  churches overseas has been a way for me to broaden my perspective and grow as a Christian. I have been shown unique ways of serving God and the community, and these experiences continue to shape my walk with Him.

One thing I’ve noticed about UPC Altarc is how it’s not just about Sunday services or big events. They’re out there, living out what it means to serve God. Here’s what I mean:

Always Pointing People to God: Everything they do, whether it’s a service, an event, or a casual conversation, seems to have one focus—helping people know God better. Ps Darren has a way with simple parables, breaking down complex concepts into something everyone can understand. You’ll always find Ps Darren talking about God—whether during meals or just sitting beside you. He’s always looking out for people to connect with.

Bible Studies at Home: They’ve been holding Bible studies in their members’ homes, which is just such a beautiful way to bring the church into everyday life. These Bible studies are spread across multiple villages, also known as Barangays (the Filipino word for village). Some of these Bible studies are even for pre-believers, offering them a chance to hear the Word of God and experience a fraction of a church service in their own homes.

Helping Those in Need: They’re always looking for ways to help people who need it the most. Whether it’s financial, emotional, or spiritual support, they’re there, no questions asked.

Basketball Ministry for the Youth: This one’s creative. They’ve started a basketball ministry to reach young people. It’s not just about the game; it’s about connecting with them and showing them God’s love in a way that makes sense to them. I saw how this ministry also serves as a safe space for the youth. Instead of spending time elsewhere, they participate in prayers before heading into their basketball activities. They also have a volleyball ministry, which I haven’t seen yet but hope to experience in 2025 if possible.

 Community Events: I had the chance to participate in one of their community outreach efforts, and it was truly meaningful. We held a prayer drive-thru, standing by the roadside with signs letting passing motorists know that Jesus loves them. For those on foot or pedicab drivers, we offered to pray for them and let God minister into their hearts. At the drive-thru, we also handed out iced water to the various pedicab drivers, showing kindness in such a simple yet impactful way. We also invited them to the Sunday services, extending the invitation to experience more of God’s presence.

Field Trip 2024: UPC Altarc organized a field trip for their Sunday school, renting a bus to visit Madja-as Park in Culasi. The day featured games like passing a pingpong ball using a piece of paper, fostering laughter and bonding among the children. Focused on building community for the younger members, the event created unforgettable memories while deepening their fellowship.

Never Missing a Beat: Even when there’s a brownout on Sundays (which happens more often than you’d think), they’re still holding their services. They don’t let challenges stop them from gathering and worshiping.

Looking Ahead

Watching Ps Darren and his team serve with so much heart and resilience has been inspiring. It’s real, grounded, and all about God. Ps Darren is also a great host—apart from showing us his church, he took the time to show us around Antique, sharing its beauty and culture. We visited a replication of Noah’s Ark, a strawberry farm, went snorkeling at Blue Lagoon where we also witnessed water baptisms, and even climbed through caves.

When I come back to Singapore, I always have fresh perspectives on living my Christian faith, and a new-found boldness to also share the Gospel.

I’m excited to head back and see what’s next for them.

Continue to lead them Lord.

In Jesus Name, Amen.

Side Note: Language and Culture in Antique

While Filipino is the national language of the Philippines, Antique has its own distinct dialect (Kinaray-a), which is predominantly spoken by the locals. Only in Manila is Filipino (also known as Tagalog in Singapore) commonly used. 

Getting Here

Book your air tickets on Philippines Airlines. The airline will help connect the International Flight and Domestic Flight. Do not worry about the short transit time.

Support UPC Altarc

These are some items from their local stores that are eligible for international shipping. All profits will be remitted back to UPC Altarc after deducting product costs and Philpost registered shipping.

The prices are clearly more competitive if you were to buy in Antique locally, but my suggestion is to look beyond buying a product—buy into their story. And if you are dropping by Antique, drop by their Sunday service at 8 am.