Oro Bible College Announces New President
PHILIPPINES – The Oro Bible College board of trustees has appointed Pastor Jess Gawangon as the new president. He succeeds outgoing Director, Dr. Nely Gamayon, who served Oro Bible College faithfully for many years. Jess Gawangon is no stranger to Oro Bible College. He has served as an instructor at the school for several years.
Early Life and Family Background
Jess P. Gawangon was born on September 12, 1967, into a family deeply rooted in faith and service. His parents, Manuel Mango-ay Gawangon and Landrade Joven Pallo, were products of the missionary efforts of Mr. and Mrs. Howard Towne in the 1960s. This strong foundation of faith was evident in his father’s role as the first elder of the Tamboboan Advent Christian Church. Manuel Gawangon served in this capacity until he was called to pastor the church from 2011 to 2021. Additionally, he held the position of PACCI president for three consecutive terms. The legacy of service continued with Jess’s uncles, three of whom are pastors, including Ptr. Virgilio Pallo, the current Chairman of OBC, and Ptr. Rucky Pallo, the PACCI secretary.
Educational Pursuits and Ministry
Jess’s educational journey began at Xavier University in Cagayan de Oro City, where he initially pursued a degree in Biology in 1986. However, in his fourth year, he felt a calling to shift his focus to theology, leading him to enroll in the Bachelor of Theology program at Oro Bible College (OBC). He graduated from OBC in 1999, marking the beginning of his dedicated service to the church.
From 2000 to 2008, Jess served as the pastor of Blessed Hope Cebu. During this time, he also pursued higher education, earning a Master of Arts in Theology and a Master of Divinity from Cebu Graduate School of Theology. In 2008, he answered the call to return to OBC as a full-time instructor, a role he continues to fulfill with passion and dedication.
Leadership and Vision
Jess’s leadership extended beyond the classroom. From 2013 to 2020, he served as the pastor of Maranatha Bible Church in Cagayan de Oro City while continuing his work as an instructor at OBC. In July 2020, he resumed his role as a full-time instructor at OBC, further solidifying his commitment to theological education and pastoral care.
As the new president of OBC, Jess aims to expand the college’s impact on all evangelical churches in the Philippines, particularly in Region 10. His philosophy for the office is centered on trinitarian unity, envisioning OBC as a key provider not only for PACCI churches but for all Evangelical Churches in the country. He plans to achieve this through a need-oriented approach to ministry, ensuring that the college’s resources and programs are tailored to meet the diverse needs of the church community.